Is there any way to predict genetic susceptibility to diabetic complications?
As was mentioned earlier, susceptibility to complications and damage from elevated blood glucose levels is influenced by one’s genes. Unfortunately, we have not identified markers of susceptibility. For those choosing tight control, is lifelong intensive treatment required? In general, tight control for people beyond puberty should be maintained for life. Alteration of therapy may be required because of advanced age or other changes in clinical circumstances, e.g., after a stroke or heart attack, signaling more serious risks from hypoglycemia. Are the results of the DCCT achievable for most people with diabetes? In theory, the answer is yes. However, in the real world, great effort will be required to reproduce the results of the DCCT. It must be recognized that the study group was young, generally healthy, and highly motivated. The professional personnel conducting the study were trained endocrinologists and diabetes educators in academic centers who were highly motivated and meticulo
