INTRODUCTION
Diabetes mellitus (DM) type 1 (DM-1) and type 2 (DM-2) is a worldwide public health problem affecting over 460 million people globally in 2019; and estimated to rise to 578 million and 700 million by 2030 and 2045, respectively.1 The high prevalence of DM and its complications put pressure on global health expenditures, which in 2017 were estimated to be over 7 billion USD with around 4 million DM-related deaths.2
Due to an unknown cause, the pancreas of DM-1 patients produces insufficient insulin leading to elevated blood glucose levels.3 Over time, DM-1 may lead to severe damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.3-5 DM-2 occurs due to the body’s ineffective use of insulin. It comprises most patients with DM and is primarily the result of excess body weight and physical inactivity.3-5 Among existing diabetes incidence data, a few studies suggest that diabetes incidence could be falling despite rising or stable prevalence, but data are inconsistent.5,6
Between 30% and 70% of patients with DM, both type 1 and type 2, present with DM-related cutaneous diseases.7,8-15 Studies on DM-related skin conditions are limited and typically focus on diabetic foot syndrome and diabetic foot ulcers.10-14 The severity of DM-related cutaneous disease may vary, ranging from benign to deforming to life-threatening.13 Diabetic skin changes may allow insight into patients’ glycemic control and may be the first signs of DM in undiagnosed patients.8,11,12,15 Recognition and management of DM-related skin conditions are important in maximizing patients’ quality of life (QoL) and in avoiding severe complications.11,13,15-17
Maintaining an intact skin barrier by preventing and treating xerosis using gentle cleansers and moisturizers may improve skin conditions in patients with diabetes.11,13,15-17 Currently, gentle cleansers and moisturizers are underused.11 Skincare is frequently lacking or overlooked as part of DM patients’ skin
Due to an unknown cause, the pancreas of DM-1 patients produces insufficient insulin leading to elevated blood glucose levels.3 Over time, DM-1 may lead to severe damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.3-5 DM-2 occurs due to the body’s ineffective use of insulin. It comprises most patients with DM and is primarily the result of excess body weight and physical inactivity.3-5 Among existing diabetes incidence data, a few studies suggest that diabetes incidence could be falling despite rising or stable prevalence, but data are inconsistent.5,6
Between 30% and 70% of patients with DM, both type 1 and type 2, present with DM-related cutaneous diseases.7,8-15 Studies on DM-related skin conditions are limited and typically focus on diabetic foot syndrome and diabetic foot ulcers.10-14 The severity of DM-related cutaneous disease may vary, ranging from benign to deforming to life-threatening.13 Diabetic skin changes may allow insight into patients’ glycemic control and may be the first signs of DM in undiagnosed patients.8,11,12,15 Recognition and management of DM-related skin conditions are important in maximizing patients’ quality of life (QoL) and in avoiding severe complications.11,13,15-17
Maintaining an intact skin barrier by preventing and treating xerosis using gentle cleansers and moisturizers may improve skin conditions in patients with diabetes.11,13,15-17 Currently, gentle cleansers and moisturizers are underused.11 Skincare is frequently lacking or overlooked as part of DM patients’ skin
