The relationship of acute insulin sensitivity to the progression of vascular disease in long-term Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus

Abstract

In 51 individuals with Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus initially of more than 15 years' duration, the acute hypoglycaemic effect of intravenous insulin (0.11 IU/ kg) was related to outcome over 18 years. This acute insulin sensitivity, or glucose assimilation index, was reproducible over the period of study. At 18-year follow-up, initial low glucose assimilation index (<0.082 mmol·1-1· min-1 was significantly (p<0.01) associated with death from vascular disease. Low glucose assimilation index was similarly significantly (p 150mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure > 95 mmHg) was the only other parameter significantly (p<0.01) related to outcome, but this relationship was no longer..