Type II Diabetes: The New Risk Factor for Alzheimer’s Disease

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease prevalent in older adults, associated with cita microvascular and macrovascular complications. Recent studies suggest a link between T2DM and an increased risk of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. The main hypothesis of this study suggests that inflammation and alterations in glucose metabolism, characteristics of T2DM, may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s pathology. Material and methods: A systematic review was conducted on studies investigating the relationship between T2DM and Alzheimer’s disease. Observational studies examining patients with T2DM, and a confirmed diagnosis of cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease were included. Searches were performed in databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, with articles published between 2000 and 2024. Results: Out of 29 studies found, 4 relevant articles were selected. The data reveals a significant association between T2DM and an increased risk of cognitive impairment in older adults, highlighting mechanisms such as microcirculatory damage, β-amyloid accumulation, and cerebral insulin resistance. Additionally, it was found that systemic oxidative stress is lower when both diseases coexist, which may be related to a lower cognitive decline compared to patients suffering from only one of the two diseases. Conclusion: The systematic review confirms a significant relationship between T2DM and Alzheimer’s disease, supporting the hypothesis that metabolic processes and insulin resistance are key factors in the progression of cognitive decline. The findings suggest that when both diseases coexist, systemic oxidative stress is moderated, opening new areas of research on protective or modulatory mechanisms. However, additional studies are needed to confirm causality and explore specific interventions that reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s in T2DM patients.