Diabetes Risk in Dogs and Humans

By Amy Fernandez

It’s pretty well established that many health-related breakthroughs result from researching canine diseases. Our meticulously documented pedigree data makes them the ideal species for tracking suspected genetic disorders, many of which plague both our species. An equally valid reason is the fact that our dogs literally share every aspect of our environment. They breathe the same air, drink the same water, flop on the same furniture and more often than they maybe should, they partake of our diets.

As we know, the American diet has become gloriously unhealthy. We eat way more stuff that we shouldn’t and that fact is reflected in a growing list of chronic health disorders associated with diet.  Let’s not dwell on that situation.  New Year’s resolutions are on the table. And this year–for sure–junk food will be off that table. At least it should be.

In case you need one more reason to stick to that agenda, I’ll mention a somewhat disheartening study from Sweden. Recently published in the British Medical Journal, this observational study from Uppsala University explored the correlation between human health stats and pet insurance claims.

That’s a fairly easy comparison in Sweden since it’s a relatively small country with a comprehensive national health database. Pet insurance stats are a bit more spotty, but they still managed to match up 209,000 dog/owner households and almost 125,000 cat/owner homes.  Guess what? It’s NOT good news. This statistical analysis looked for any health-related matches. And one jumped out immediately.

This study analyzed six years of data and results were adjusted for socioeconomic factors and genetic predisposition for diabetes that’s recognized in some breeds. Beyond that, however, owners (especially male owners) of diabetic dogs were 32 percent more likely to develop the disease themselves. The study’s lead author, Beatrice Kennedy, was quick to point out that it doesn’t imply any cause and effect link. Diabetes is NOT a contagious disease. But she also wouldn’t rule out the potential impact of lifestyle choices and shared health habits.

So, put down that donut and go for a walk! Happy New Year!

Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=195616

Posted by admin on Jan 1 2021. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.