To the authors' knowledge, this is the first population-based study to reveal a statistically significant association between traffic-related air pollution and type 2 diabetes. Previous epidemiologic research shows that city dwellers have a higher prevalence of diabetes than do rural residents, especially in developing countries undergoing rapid industrialization. Changes in diet and physical activity and resulting increases in obesity are believed to be the primary culprits. These changes, however, do not totally explain the increased diabetes risk. The results of the current study suggest traffic-related air pollutants may be an unidentified environmental factor related to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Other studies have reported that people with diabetes are more vulnerable to pollution-related cardiovascular disease. Air pollutants can cause low-grade inflammation, insulin resistance, and impaired glucose metabolism. Additionally, C3c is a risk factor for diabetes, and C3c levels are higher in individuals living in highly polluted areas. The latest findings further support the role of traffic air pollutants and low-grade inflammation in diabetes risk.

SOURCE Environmental Health Perspectives