Approved Research

The integrated impact of genetics, multilevel biomarkers, lifestyle factors and environmental exposures on the prediction, diagnosis and outcomes of diabetes mellitus

Lay summary

Diabetes is a major global health threat, and an estimated 537 million adults (20-79 years) were living with diabetes in 2021, with a predicted rise to 783 million by 2045. The long-term consequences of diabetes can be dysfunction and failure of different organs, especially the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels. The complex accumulation and interaction of various risk factors in the onset and development of diabetes and diabetic complications remain unclear. Therefore, we intend to explore the

role of a combination of multidimensional risk factors for the development and progression of diabetes using the baseline and follow-up data in UK Biobank. In this study, we aim to examine the effects of several common risk factors, including demographic characteristics, physical activity, sleep, diet nutrition, environmental factors, multilevel biomarkers and genetics, on metabolic health status, pre-diabetes, diabetes, and diabetic complications. Through this analysis, we can identify high-risk factors that are closely associated with the onset, progression and prognosis of diabetes. Ultimately, our goal is to construct accurate disease prediction models that can facilitate early detection and diagnosis of diabetes. The project will span at least 3 years. The research findings can aid clinicians in identifying high-risk patients and implementing early interventions to enhance the quality of life and to reduce mortality rates.