High blood glucose weakens immunity in Type 2 diabetes patients

HONG KONG: A groundbreaking study by the LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong (HKUMed), has identified how high blood glucose levels impair immunity against viral infections in Type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. Published in Cell Metabolism, the research shows a 40% decrease in Th1 cell functionality in patients with poorly controlled diabetes, weakening anti-viral responses.
Led by Professor Heidi Ling Guangsheng and Dr Paul Lee Chi-Ho, the findings emphasize the critical role of glycaemic control in strengthening immunity and reducing risks from infections like COVID-19 and influenza.