VALLEJO, CA--(Marketwired - May 25, 2016) - Touro University California researchers have begun studies to investigate the use of fingerprints to predict and prevent diabetes.
Currently more than 29 million Americans have diabetes with 90 percent suffering from Type 2. One-third of people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes suffer complications by the time they are diagnosed, which has typically been early 50s, but is getting younger. The result is a state and a nation desperate for prevention and resolution. Early detection allows those at risk to take the necessary steps to lessen the impact of the disease and potentially prevent it from developing.
Diabetes expert, Dr. Jay Shubrook of Touro, stands ready to find a resolution not only for all of those affected by this epidemic disease. "Too many people are at risk for Type 2 and without having access to early information, may not have the opportunity to take the necessary actions to stop this preventable disease. Early information allows for early intervention."
Fingerprints were chosen for the study because they are influenced by both genetics and the gestational environment. Fingerprints form early, beginning with the thumb at six weeks and ending with the pinky at 17 weeks, and thereafter remain unchanged.
Current tests for diabetes prediction involve genetic testing which is not readily available to the general public. The simple scan of a finger, on the other hand, can predict one's risk of Type 2 Diabetes as early as 17 weeks after conception. If the prints on the left hand do not match those on the right, a phenomenon known as asymmetry, the subject is determined to be at risk for developing diabetes. The study, based on the concept of "fluctuating asymmetry," maintains that an organism's ability to cope with environmental stresses is reflected in deviation from perfect bilateral body symmetry. The greater the deviation, the lower the ability to cope with environmental stress, making it more likely for certain diseases to occur later in life.
Findings from further studies being done may eventually lead to the development of simple screening tests to determine the risk for developing diabetes and associated health problems. The simplicity of this test means that it can be widely available to the public.
Recently Touro celebrated the grand opening of its Translational Research Clinic. This new facility will be utilized to focus efforts on high public health impact issues such as diabetes and obesity.
Additional information is available online at www.tu.edu.
About Touro University California
Touro University California is a Jewish nonprofit, independent graduate institution of higher learning founded in 1997 on three Judaic values: social justice, the pursuit of knowledge and service to humanity. The university, home to 1,400 students, has professional programs in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, public health, nursing, and education. To learn more, visit www.tu.edu or call 707-638-5200.
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