Sugary foods, processed meats and a lack of exercise are perhaps the first things that spring to mind when considering the causes of type two diabetes. Yet, scientists are now warning of another surprising cause that’s completely invisible and overlooked.
Worryingly, this culprit is pollution or, more specifically, ‘styrene’ and ‘ethylbenzene’, which are both derived from petroleum and used to create synthetic rubbers and resins. However, ethylbenzene is also commonly found in car emissions, pesticides and even cigarette smoke, while styrene exposure can occur from breathing ‘indoor air’.
According to the ATSDR, this especially includes air contaminated with vapours from building materials, tobacco smoke, car exhausts and the use of copying machines. Dr Bin Wang, a leading author of the Huazhong University study, said: “Our research provides critical insights into how environmental pollutants like styrene and ethylbenzene exacerbate the genetic risk of [type two diabetes].
“Understanding the dual influence of genetic and environmental factors is essential for improving public health strategies aimed at protecting high-risk groups.”
As part of the research, experts studied 2,219 Chinese adults aged between 18 and 80 over a whopping six-year period. By analysing urinary data and undertaking pollution-exposure tests, they explored the link between the chronic condition and contact with each chemical.
Their stark results presented ‘initial evidence’ that styrene and ethylbenzene exposure is ‘significantly related’ to the increased risk of type two diabetes. This relationship was ‘aggravated’ by genetic predisposition too.
The authors concluded: “These findings provide scientific evidence for formulating preventive strategies targeting [type two diabetes] and establishing regulations related to environmental pollution by [styrene and ethylbenzene].”
Diabetes UK estimates that a staggering 4.4million people in the UK have type two diabetes, while an additional 1.2million may be living with it undiagnosed. The NHS urges anyone who thinks they have diabetes to see a GP as the earlier treatment is started, the better.
