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| - Last Updated on September 27, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that regular insulin can cause heart failure and stroke. After fact checking, we found out it’s Mostly False.
The Claim
A Facebook post circulating on social media claims that “taking medications and injecting insulin regularly can cause heart failure and stroke.” It further alleges that experts from the Ministry of Health have found a quick and cost-effective way to treat diabetes at home.
Fact Check
Can insulin injections cause heart failure or stroke?
Not directly, but some risks do exist. Insulin itself doesn’t cause heart failure or stroke, but it plays a crucial role in managing diabetes, especially for those with type 1 and some with type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar and prevents serious complications, such as cardiovascular disease. However, recent studies suggest insulin may raise risks for certain patients, although heart attacks and strokes aren’t confirmed side effects. Similarly, claims that things like bathing incorrectly can increase stroke risk are also inaccurate.
A 2022 review found that heart failure patients on insulin had higher rates of death and hospitalisation compared to those on non-insulin therapies. Although insulin didn’t raise the risk of stroke or heart attack, complications like fluid retention can worsen heart conditions, highlighting the need for close monitoring.
Additionally, a 2013 review compared insulin with metformin for type 2 diabetes and found that insulin therapy was associated with higher risks of heart attacks, strokes, eye issues, and kidney problems. On the other hand, a 2011 review raised concerns about increasing doses, severe hypoglycemia, and even a higher risk of death or cancers like pancreatic cancer.
A 2017 review further associated insulin with weight gain, recurrent hypoglycemia, and heart issues, suggesting it may have a less favourable long-term safety profile compared to other diabetes treatments. These risks should be carefully weighed.
Dr Ashirwad Pawar, Diabetologist, Sai Aashirwad Hospital, Mumbai, says, “Insulin injections themselves do not directly cause heart failure or stroke. However, patients with diabetes, especially those with long-standing or poorly controlled blood sugar levels, already face an elevated risk of cardiovascular complications, such as heart failure or stroke. This is due to the chronic nature of diabetes, which can damage blood vessels and lead to atherosclerosis.”
He further explains, “That said, insulin can sometimes contribute indirectly to these risks if it leads to episodes of severe hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar). Hypoglycemia, in turn, can put stress on the heart and increase the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or arrhythmias.”
Dr Pawar adds, “It’s important to note that insulin is often necessary to manage diabetes effectively and reduce complications, including heart disease. Proper monitoring of blood sugar levels and adjusting insulin doses can minimise risks. If you or your patients are concerned about cardiovascular risks, it’s advisable to manage not only blood sugar but also blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health.”
We also connected with Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai. She states, “Insulin injections alone do not lead to heart failure or stroke. Insulin is a vital hormone used to manage blood sugar levels in diabetes and, when used correctly, helps prevent long-term complications, including cardiovascular disease. However, if diabetes is poorly controlled or insulin is improperly managed, fluctuations in blood sugar (either too high or too low) can contribute to cardiovascular risks. Severe hypoglycemia, a potential side effect of insulin, can stress the heart and, in rare cases, exacerbate pre-existing heart conditions. It’s important to note that insulin is part of a broader diabetes management plan, and addressing other risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight is crucial to minimising the risk of heart failure or stroke.”
Are there risks associated with using insulin?
Yes, but they are manageable. Insulin therapy comes with risks, most commonly hypoglycemia, where blood sugar drops too low. This can cause dizziness, confusion, or even unconsciousness in severe cases. Regular monitoring and proper dosing usually manage these risks well.
Other potential side effects of insulin therapy include weight gain and rare electrolyte imbalances, like hypokalemia. The subcutaneous injection route can also cause pain or fat loss at the injection site. Some patients may experience the Somogyi effect (where low blood sugar at night causes high levels in the morning) or the dawn phenomenon (where early morning high blood sugar results from inadequate insulin). Individuals can manage both conditions by adjusting insulin doses.
Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, says, “Insulin carries risks, but with proper management, patients can generally control them. Hypoglycemia is the main concern, but careful dosing and monitoring minimise these risks. Insulin plays a vital role in diabetes care, and its benefits far outweigh the manageable side effects.”
Is there a quick and cost-effective way to treat diabetes at home?
No, there isn’t. Diabetes, whether type 1 or type 2, requires long-term management through lifestyle changes, monitoring, and often medications. Claims of a quick remedy are misleading and can be dangerous. For example, the false claim that applying oil to the belly button can cure diabetes can actually deter patients from using essential treatments. There is no shortcut to managing diabetes. Moreover, such claims may encourage people to abandon essential treatments, leading to severe health consequences.
Has the Ministry of Health endorsed an alternative treatment for diabetes?
No, it hasn’t. There is no evidence to support claims that any Ministry of Health has promoted a quick or affordable alternative to insulin. Health authorities worldwide recommend insulin and other proven treatments to manage diabetes. Any suggestion of an alternative is likely part of misinformation. People with diabetes often search for quick cures, such as claims that type 2 diabetes can be reversed, but this is not factually correct. Always consult a healthcare provider for safe and effective diabetes management.
THIP Media Take
The claim that insulin causes heart failure and stroke is mostly false. Insulin is vital for managing diabetes, though some studies suggest higher risks for heart failure patients. Proper use helps prevent serious complications like heart disease. Healthcare providers should weigh other risks, such as hypoglycemia and potential links to cancer, against its benefits. The claim of a Ministry of Health-endorsed alternative is also false—diabetes management requires long-term care, not quick fixes.
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