Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new model, DOMUS, that predicts the risk of complications and treatment outcomes for patients with type 2 diabetes. The model uses data from nearly 130,000 patients and takes into account various factors, including blood sugar levels, weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Key Findings
- Early treatment matters: The model shows that early treatment of diabetes can make a significant difference in preventing long-term complications.
- Predicts 14 complications: DOMUS predicts the risk of 14 different complications, including heart attacks, kidney failure, and depression.
- Models disease progression: The model predicts how risk factors such as weight, cholesterol, and A1C levels change over time.
Implications
The DOMUS model has the potential to inform clinical decision-making and policy decisions related to diabetes treatment and management. It can help clinicians and policymakers understand the potential benefits and costs of different treatment approaches and make more informed decisions about resource allocation.
Future Directions
The researchers are working on external validation of the model using different data sources and plan to apply it to study racial and ethnic disparities in predicted outcomes. The model has the potential to be used by insurers, policymakers, and public health agencies to guide decisions about diabetes treatment and management.