TYPE 1 DIABETES AND BONE HEALTH: ROLE OF REDUCED BONE DENSITY AND FRACTURE RISK

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease that affects not only glycemic control but also bone remodeling, leading to reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and increased fracture risk. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between T1DM and bone health, focusing on reduced BMD and fracture risk. Methods included a systematic review of the scientific literature from the last 10 years in the Pub Med, Scopus and Web of Science databases with the keywords: diabetes type 1, bone fractures, BMD, prevention and accessible full text of the scientific reports from which this review was prepared. The results of the systematic review indicate that the duration of the disease, impaired insulin and calcium metabolism, as well as chronic hyperglycemia contribute to impaired osteogenesis and increased risk of fractures. The most susceptible to fractures in type 1 diabetes are the bones of the femoral neck and lumbar spine. The accompanying complications, such as diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy and hypoglycemic episodes, increase the risk of falls and fractures. Conclusion: optimal blood glucose control, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, physical activity and regular monitoring of BMD can minimize subsequent fracture risks and prevent bone health.