Many diabetics may not be following treatment advice

Individuals who buy Actos to control their diabetes are warned not to drink alcohol, as the substance causes blood sugar to drop to dangerous levels. However, a new investigation indicates that many individuals with the condition may not be heeding this advice.

Researchers reported in the British Medical Journal that alcohol-related deaths among diabetics have become more common over the course of the last three decades. This has nullified some of the gains made during this time in the treatment of people with the condition.

Between 1970 and 2007, the researchers found that overall survival rates improved for diabetics. This was mainly due to the fact that fewer individuals were experiencing chronic complications, like heart disease, retinopathy or other conditions.

These improvements were made despite the fact that more people were dying from alcohol-related causes. Individuals who were diagnosed with the condition as early adults were most at risk for this.

"This highlights the importance of permanent and long lasting doctor-patient relationships, close supervision, and guidance on the short term and long term effects of alcohol," the researchers concluded.