Research from around the World

Losing weight soon after type 2 diabetes diagnosis doubles positive outcomes

Recent US research shows people who lose weight soon after a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes have better control of their blood pressure and blood sugar, and are more likely to maintain control, even if they regain weight. Those who lost weight within 18 months after diagnosis were twice as likely to achieve control of their blood pressure and blood sugars.

Type 2 diabetes accounts for 85-90 per cent of all diabetes. It is estimated that 275 Australians develop diabetes every day. “This research shows that being physically active and eating a healthy diet can help to manage diabetes,” says endocrinologist Professor Helena Teede. “If you have type 2 diabetes, talk to your doctor about screening tests, targets and what you can do to lower your risk of diabetes complications.”

Doubling of STIs among over 45s in under a decade

Research from the UK has shown that the rate of over 45s with sexually transmissible infections (STIs) has doubled in less than a decade. The eight year study showed an increase of STIs in both men and women. The most commonly diagnosed infection was genital warts, followed by herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis.

Whilst previously the focus has been on sexual health in younger people, this research highlights they are not the only ones at risk. “Being born before the age of HIV and other sexually transmissible infections, such as herpes and chlamydia, many older women in new relationships forget about applying, or are not aware of, safer sex rules,” says gynaecologist Dr Elizabeth Farrell.

“Knowledge of safer sex practices, including the use of condoms and other preventive measures, is important for all women – regardless of age.”

Contracting pelvic floor muscles prevents urine leakage before and after pregnancy

A New Zealand research review has identified that women who receive one on one instruction from a health professional on how to contract pelvic floor muscles, are less likely to suffer urine leakage (incontinence) during or after pregnancy.

Those with no prior history of incontinence who were taught pelvic floor exercises individually and practised the exercises with supervision, were up to 50 per cent less likely to experience urine leakage in late pregnancy, and a third less likely to experience leakage up to six months after birth.

“Pelvic floor exercises are of benefit to women of all ages” says physiotherapist Janetta Webb. “They are particularly important for women during and after pregnancy. Exercises need to be practised daily and correctly to be effective. It’s never too late to learn pelvic floor exercises. Seek help from a continence physiotherapist or continence nurse to ensure you are doing them effectively.”  

© 2008 The Jean Hailes Foundation for Women's Health

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Content Updated November 25, 2008