Fractures, Glycemic Control, and Bone Mineral Density in Females With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Critically Appraised Topic

Abstract

Clinical scenarios have risen where females with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1-DM), whose demographics are similar to their male counterparts, have sustained bone injuries, whereas the males with T1-DM have not. These scenarios bring into question the effect of T1-DM on various aspects of bone health and injury risk in females. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of T1-DM in females on their fracture risk, glycemic control abilities, and bone mineral density when compared to their male counterparts. Results were consistent across all studies, indicating that individuals with T1-DM had poor glycemic control abilities during ages within peak bone accrual, had significantly lower bone mineral density, and had a greater fracture incidence. Given these results, there is a need for future education to emphasize the importance of glycemic management, future research to investigate differences in physically active populations, and for clinicians to recognize their at-risk patients and take the necessary measures to prevent injury.