Stress can raise risk of mental decline in diabetes sufferers

STRESS raises the risk of mental decline in older people with diabetes according to a team of Scots scientists.

A study by researchers at Edinburgh University has discovered that brain function slowed in those with higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Scientists believe regulating cortisol levels could stave off cognitive decline in patients with the condition.

Dr Rebecca Reynolds, of Edinburgh University's Centre for Cardiovascular Science, said: "This study shows that older people with diabetes who have higher levels of stress hormones in their blood are more likely to have experienced cognitive decline.

"It may be that by regulating cortisol levels, we could help improve cognitive decline in patients with type 2 diabetes."

Type 2 diabetes usually appears in people aged over 40, but is becoming more common in children and young people, according to Diabetes UK.