A recent study led by researchers at the University of Hong Kong (HKUMed) has found that parathyroid surgery significantly reduces the risk of developing diabetes by 30% in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). The study analyzed data from over 3,100 adult patients with PHPT and found that those who underwent parathyroidectomy had a lower risk of developing diabetes compared to those who did not have surgery.
Key Findings
- Parathyroid surgery reduces diabetes risk: Patients who underwent parathyroidectomy had a 30% lower risk of developing diabetes compared to those who did not have surgery.
- Benefits particularly pronounced in younger patients: The benefit of parathyroid surgery was particularly pronounced in younger patients and those with more severe PHPT.
- Potential metabolic benefits: The study suggests that parathyroid surgery may offer important metabolic benefits beyond its known effects on calcium regulation.
Implications
The study’s findings have implications for the treatment and management of PHPT, particularly in patients at high risk of developing diabetes. The results suggest that parathyroid surgery may be a useful treatment option for patients with PHPT, not only for its known benefits on bone and kidney health but also for its potential metabolic benefits.
Call for Awareness and Early Treatment
The researchers hope that the study will raise public awareness of PHPT and encourage early diagnosis and treatment, particularly among individuals at high risk of developing diabetes. Early treatment may allow more patients to benefit from the wide-ranging health improvements provided by surgery.