Archive · 30 Sep 2025
Gene Variant Delays Diabetes Diagnosis in Millions of Men
Imagine a hidden genetic problem that makes it harder for doctors to find diabetes in men.
This problem, called G6PD deficiency, affects millions of people around the world.
It makes a common blood test for diabetes look normal, even when the person has diabetes.
Because of this, men with this problem may not get diagnosed with diabetes as early as they should.
This can lead to health problems like eye, kidney, and nerve damage.
Scientists are now saying that doctors need to find better ways to test for diabetes in these men.
G6PD deficiency may delay the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in men.
The gene variant affects over 400 million people globally.
Men with the variant are diagnosed an average of four years later.
The variant increases the risk of diabetes-related microvascular complications.
The HbA1c blood test may be inaccurate for people with G6PD deficiency.
- Who
- Men with the G6PD deficiency gene variant.
- What
- The G6PD deficiency gene variant delays type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
- When
- Men with the variant are diagnosed about four years later.
- Where
- Worldwide, but more common in those of African, Asian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean backgrounds.
- Why
- The HbA1c blood test, used to diagnose diabetes, appears inaccurate for people with the variant.
- Gene Variant
- G6PD deficiency
- Affects
- Over 400 million people globally
- Common in
- Men
- Delayed Diagnosis
- About four years
- Increased Risk
- 37% higher risk of microvascular complications
- HbA1c Test
- May appear artificially low in those with G6PD deficiency