Association between environmental factors and risk of type 1 diabetes — a case-control study

Abstract

Introduction: While many studies support the theory that environmental factors play a role in the development of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), controversy exists as to the contribution of any individual factor. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate the associations of T1DM with several environmental factors.
Material and methods: A case-control study was conducted on children £ 16 years old who were diagnosed with T1DM and healthy ageand sex-matched controls. Data regarding the socio-demographic status, gestational and neonatal risk factors were evaluated.
Results: One hundred and one children with T1DM (41 males and 60 females), and the same number of age- and sex-matched controls, were included in the present study (mean age 10.3 ± 4.5 years). On multivariable logistic regression analysis, maternal age > 35 years at delivery, duration of > 6 months of cow milk feeding, lack of vitamin D supplementation and caesarean delivery were significantly associated with diabetes.
Conclusion: In the present case-control study, certain environmental risk factors were associated with the development of T1DM.
(Pol J Endocrinol 2011; 62 (2): 134–137)