On the Mechanisms of the Protective Effect of Infections on Type 1 Diabetes
2004
Infections and Their Protective Effect on Type 1 Diabetes
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): HE LE NE FEILLET, JEAN-FRANCOIS BACH
Primary Institution: Necker Hospital, INSERM U580
Hypothesis
The increase in type 1 diabetes incidence is linked to the decrease of infections due to improved hygiene.
Conclusion
Infections may have a protective effect against the onset of type 1 diabetes.
Supporting Evidence
- The incidence of type 1 diabetes has been rising in developed countries.
- Children in families that migrate from low to high incidence areas show increased type 1 diabetes rates.
- Animal models show that infections can prevent type 1 diabetes onset.
Takeaway
Getting sick from infections might actually help protect kids from getting type 1 diabetes later on.
Methodology
The article reviews epidemiological data and mechanisms related to infections and type 1 diabetes.
Limitations
The evidence for a causal relationship is suggestive but not definitive.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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