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January 30, 2005

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Question from Olathe, Kansas, USA:

Does diabetes severely affect your immune system?

Answer:

From: DTeam Staff

I will assume that your question relates to the effect of poor blood glucose control. This results in the white blood cells being less effective in fighting infections. In addition, bugs like sugar so any scratches, etc. are more likely to become infected. You should be aware that type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and that other conditions in this group, e.g. celiac disease and underactive thyroid, are more common in people with diabetes.

KJR