DIABETES

A medical research update reports that certain organic pollutants, including furans, dioxins and related chemical compounds, may be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The finding highlights the potential role of environmental exposures in metabolic health.

Preliminary research involving more than 250,000 adults with prediabetes and obesity found that people taking GLP-1 medicines were more likely to return to normal blood glucose levels and had lower reported risks of progressing to type 2 diabetes than those taking metformin. The findings are being presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026.

On 28 October 2026, reports described Eli Lilly's announcement that its experimental medicine retatrutide outperformed semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, in a Phase III trial involving people with type 2 diabetes. The results have attracted attention because of the continuing search for more effective treatments for diabetes and obesity. Retatrutide remains an investigational medicine, and reported trial findings should not be interpreted as proof that it is approved or suitable for routine treatment.

A review of GLP-1 receptor agonists published in the medical news cycle on 26 October 2026 has drawn attention to the benefits and potential risks of this class of medicines. These treatments can support blood sugar control and weight management in appropriate patients, but concerns involving pancreatitis and other adverse effects underline the need for individual medical assessment and monitoring.

A report summarised by the New Hampshire Medical Society on 22 October highlighted evidence that adults with type 1 diabetes are more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. The findings underline the importance of considering psychological wellbeing alongside glucose management.

A report published on 21 October described international guidance and new European data supporting screening children for type 1 diabetes before symptoms appear. Screening may identify children with diabetes-related autoantibodies who need further testing and monitoring.

Medical Xpress reported on 19 October that researchers found Miro1 levels were elevated in skeletal muscle from people with type 2 diabetes. Removing the protein improved insulin responsiveness in experimental models, while aerobic exercise reduced its levels in participants.

Medical Xpress reported on 19 October that researchers identified Miro1 as a possible contributor to insulin resistance in skeletal muscle. In experimental models, removing the protein improved insulin responsiveness, while exercise was associated with lower muscle Miro1 levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Medical Xpress reported on 19 October that researchers identified Miro1 as a possible contributor to insulin resistance in skeletal muscle. In preclinical models, removing the protein restored aspects of insulin responsiveness, while exercise was associated with lower muscle Miro1 levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Reuters reported on 16 October that a six-month trial involving 283 adults with type 2 diabetes found improved glucose-control measures among participants using continuous glucose monitoring compared with routine care. The trial was sponsored by device manufacturer Dexcom.

A Reuters report published on 16 October described a six-month trial in which continuous glucose monitoring helped adults with type 2 diabetes who were not using insulin improve their blood-sugar measurements. The trial was sponsored by device maker Dexcom.

UC Davis Health reported on 15 October that a pilot remote-monitoring programme helped children and young people with type 1 diabetes improve blood-glucose management between clinic visits.