BIPOLAR AND DIABETES 2

Type 2 diabetes rates are 3 times higher in patients with bipolar disorder than the general population. The leading cause of death for bipolar sufferers is cardiovascular problems which diabetes is a major contributing factor. Pathophysiology(converge of pathology with physiology) may link the two disorders, such as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and mitochondrial dysfunction and common genetic links. Also, lifestyle, bipolar symptoms and adverse reactions of medications may contribute. Control of diabetes is poorer in bipolar patients compare to those without the disorder. Lack of medical care may be partly responsible. This makes patients with type 2 diabetes have a more severe course of illness. Glucose abnormalities need to be screened for and treated. The best benefit/risk ratio appears to be Metformin. Physicians need to be aware of the increased risk in bipolar patients of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Appropriate prevention, screening and treatment is recommended.