A new study performed by researchers from the University of Kansas suggests that America's college graduates are more efficient in managing and preventing diabetes than those people who did not graduate.
According to Kyle Chapman of the University of Kansas, their study shows that those with a college degree or more education cab benefit more from the physical activity and positive health behavior than other groups.
The scientists analyzed in their research data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007-2012. Available data combined laboratory tests, physical exams, and interviews. According to Chapman, the findings seemed to support previous research that has already shown people of higher levels of education tend benefit of access to environments more conducive to healthier lifestyles and exercise, such as living in nicer neighborhoods that encourage walking or gym memberships.
According to Chapman, the scientists found big differences in those at risk for diabetes. The study analyzed key factors such as body-mass index, controlling diet, and social factors. The results of the analysis shown that physically active adults with a college degree who were 6 percent less likely to have elevated levels of blood glucose or other pre-diabetic symptoms than physically inactive college-educated adults in the U.S..
The discrepancies found were much higher between adults with college degree and the rest. For those people who never graduated high school, a high school diploma, or some college, at best physical activity only accounted for a 1 percent less chance they would have pre-diabetic symptoms.
Chapman added for college graduates is easier to work in jobs that give them more flexibility and financial stability that allow them to live with fewer social stressors. The study can serve as a starting point for further discussions on how to better address preventing and managing diabetes, particularly among individuals who use current practices that are less effective, Chapman stated. The researcher further explained that the less educated are the people who actually need more help in finding effective ways to prevent and manage their illness.
