How Do We Define Cure of Diabetes?

How Do We Define Cure of Diabetes?

NOVEMBER 2009 | JOHN B. BUSE, MD, PHD; SUE MCLAUGHLIN, BS, RD, CPT; SONIA CAPRIO, MD; WILLIAM T. CEFALU, MD; ANTONIO CERIELLO, MD; STEFANO DEL PRATO, MD; SILVIO E. INZUCCCHI, MD; GORDON L. PHILLIPS II, MD; R. PAUL ROBERTSON, MD; FRANCESCO RUBINO, MD; RICHARD KAHN, PHD; M. SUE KIRKMAN, MD
The article discusses the definition of "cure" and "remission" in diabetes. It highlights that while some treatments for type 1 and type 2 diabetes may be seen as curative, defining remission or cure is complex. Unlike acute diseases, diabetes is a chronic condition defined by hyperglycemia, which exists on a continuum and can fluctuate. The consensus group of experts concluded that "remission" is more appropriate than "cure" for chronic illnesses like diabetes. Remission is defined as achieving glycemia below the diabetic range without active pharmacologic or surgical therapy. Partial remission is sub-diabetic hyperglycemia lasting at least one year, while complete remission is normal glucose metabolism for at least one year. Prolonged remission (more than five years) may be considered a cure. However, even in prolonged remission, patients still require diabetes-specific treatment goals and screening protocols. The group also noted that while remission may reduce the risk of complications, the risk of relapse remains higher than in non-diabetic individuals. The definitions and recommendations are based on current therapies and may need to be revised as new treatments emerge. The authors emphasize the importance of ongoing discussion in the field as new evidence becomes available.The article discusses the definition of "cure" and "remission" in diabetes. It highlights that while some treatments for type 1 and type 2 diabetes may be seen as curative, defining remission or cure is complex. Unlike acute diseases, diabetes is a chronic condition defined by hyperglycemia, which exists on a continuum and can fluctuate. The consensus group of experts concluded that "remission" is more appropriate than "cure" for chronic illnesses like diabetes. Remission is defined as achieving glycemia below the diabetic range without active pharmacologic or surgical therapy. Partial remission is sub-diabetic hyperglycemia lasting at least one year, while complete remission is normal glucose metabolism for at least one year. Prolonged remission (more than five years) may be considered a cure. However, even in prolonged remission, patients still require diabetes-specific treatment goals and screening protocols. The group also noted that while remission may reduce the risk of complications, the risk of relapse remains higher than in non-diabetic individuals. The definitions and recommendations are based on current therapies and may need to be revised as new treatments emerge. The authors emphasize the importance of ongoing discussion in the field as new evidence becomes available.
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