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New York, May 14, 2025 – Adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes face significantly higher risks of cardiovascular disease and premature death, according to a major new study published in the European Heart Journal. The findings challenge longstanding assumptions that developing type 1 diabetes later in life leads to a milder course or better prognosis.
The research, led by scientists at Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet, analyzed health data from more than 10,000 adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes between 2001 and 2020, alongside over half a million matched controls from the general population. The results were striking: adults with type 1 diabetes had a notably higher incidence of heart disease, cancer, infections, and all-cause mortality compared to those without diabetes.
“The main reasons for the poor prognosis are smoking, overweight/obesity, and poor glucose control. We found that adults with type 1 diabetes were less likely to use assistive devices, such as insulin pumps,” said Yuxia Wei, first author and postdoctoral fellow at the Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet.
Adult-Onset Type 1 Diabetes: Not a Milder Disease
Type 1 diabetes, often called “juvenile diabetes,” can actually develop at any age. However, research on adult-onset cases-especially those diagnosed after age 40-has been limited. This study specifically focused on this under-studied group and found that their risk of major cardiovascular events and mortality was just as high as those diagnosed in childhood.
The study also found that adults with type 1 diabetes had a 30% greater risk of major cardiovascular events (such as heart attack or stroke) and a 71% higher risk of death from any cause compared to the general population. Notably, their risk of dying from diabetic coma or ketoacidosis was seven times higher than people with type 2 diabetes.
Key Risk Factors and Prevention
The research identified several modifiable risk factors most closely linked to poor outcomes:
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Smoking
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Poor glucose (blood sugar) control
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Overweight or obesity
Adults with type 1 diabetes were also less likely to use insulin pumps or other advanced diabetes management devices, which may contribute to worse glucose control and higher risks.
“Being diagnosed later in life doesn’t make the disease less serious,” emphasized Dr. Sofia Carlsson, senior author and associate professor at Karolinska Institutet. “But our study also shows that outcomes can be greatly improved with better glucose control, smoking cessation, and weight management”.
Looking Ahead
The research team plans to further investigate the unique challenges faced by adults with type 1 diabetes, including exploring the benefits of advanced treatments like insulin pumps and identifying additional risk factors and complications.
As type 1 diabetes is increasingly recognized across all age groups, the study underscores the urgent need for tailored care and early intervention for adults living with this lifelong condition.
Disclaimer:
This article summarizes findings from a peer-reviewed study published in the European Heart Journal on May 14, 2025. The information provided is for general news purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance specific to your health situation.
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