Strict Blood Sugar Control May Pose Less Risk Than Originally Thought

In the midst of a 2008 blood sugar study called Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD), researchers pulled the plug when the number of deaths increased for a group of subjects. These type 2 diabetics received intensive treatment to attain near-normal blood sugar levels. Upon reviewing the study, experts now conclude the rise in deaths was unrelated to the rapid reduction in blood sugar.

Dr. Matthew Riddle, who authored the study, told HealthDay that the cause of death is still unclear. However, it is now known that the group of subjects who were able to bring down their A1C (a test used to monitor your blood sugar control) levels did not experience more deaths, while those who failed to lower these levels did have an increased mortality rate.

While the recommended A1C level for diabetics is 7 percent, the 2008 study attempted to reach A1C levels of less than 6%. To attain these levels, type 2 diabetics would require drastic and rapid changes in their lifestyle such as weight loss and increased exercise, along with medications.