The Future of Diabetes Gene Therapy

The research and technology involved in gene therapy is growing at an exceptionally speedy rate. One of its potential attainable goals is to cure diabetes. Through oral medication, the proper function of cells causing diabetes may be restored.

Bouv Northeastern University Health and Counseling Services

This brochure was made possible by: Kunal ai! "ason #a! Krunal #atel $oang #ham

Stem Cells
There is also research currently being performed that investigate stem cells. One characteristic of diabetes is a degeneration of islet cells in the body. Research aims to restore these islet cells through the use of stem cells.
Northeastern University Health and Counseling Services

Diabetes t n e m e g a n a M

Organization

Boston, MA 02115 Address Line 4 Phone: 617-373-2772 E-mail: nush !neu"edu

Northeastern University

What is Diabetes?
Often referred to by professionals as (diabetes mellitus,) diabetes is actually a group of diseases that have to do with the metabolic processes of the body. Those afflicted have blood glucose levels that are too high due to either inade*uate , or lac! of, production of insulin. +iabetes is bro!en down to two categories, Type , and Type -.

Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes

Type , diabetes is the least common version of diabetes. 'n this type, the body produc$ es no insulin% #eople with Type , diabetes will ta!e insulin in/ections for the rest of their life, along with a lifestyle choice of special diet and regular blood testing. 'n type - diabetes, cells of the body do not respond correctly to insulin% 012 of all diabetes cases are of this type. Overweight individuals can possibly control this type through proper exercise and diet choices. Type - diabetes can progress and worsen to the point of needing to regu-

larly ta!e insulin. & Comparison !etween Type ' and Type ( Type '
)o insulin produced &xtremely rare, about ,1-,32 of diabetes patients are T, ot preventable $as nothing to do with weight or lifestyle

Type (
+ecreased insulin sensitivity 'ncreased glucose levels in the body 4ac! of exercise, being overweight, and genetic factors D* contribute to T-

How To Mana e Diabetes

The main goal of diabetes management is to achieve a carbohydrate metabolism that is as close to a normal state as possible. 'ndividuals with insulin deficiency re*uire insulin replacement whereas insulin resistance can be corrected by modifying ones diet and exercise. Other goals involve the prevention and treatment of complications that can result from the disease itself and from its treatment.

Exercise and Diet

Those with diabetes who don%t exercise are three times more li!ely to have poor blood glucose control and are more li!ely to suffer diabetes complications. $owever, those who exercise regularly have improved sensitivity to their body%s own insulin and their bodies become better at transporting glucose because exercise stimulates the body%s muscles. &ating a consistent amount of food every day and ta!ing medications as directed can greatly improve blood sugar control and decrease the ris! of diabetes-related complications, such as coronary artery disease, !idney disease, and nerve damage. 'n addition, these measures impact weight control.

Monitorin !lood Su ar "e#els

.lood glucose monitoring is the main tool you have to chec! your diabetes control. One can chec! their sugar levels individually by using a meter and lancing device commercially available or through prescription from a doctor.

Contact number: +',$-,-$(,,(

ortheastern ;niversity $ealth and <ounseling =ervices

561 $untington 7ve, .oston, 87 1-,,3 #hone: 6,9-595--99&-mail: nushp:neu.edu

Medications: There are many medications that

are used in diabetes management such as insulin, herbs, supplements, and more. Those with diabetes should consult their doctor to discuss the possibility of ta!ing medication.