Lucknow: A simple walking test developed by researchers at King George's Medical University (KGMU) may help detect prediabetes early. Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for diabetes symptoms to appear. The method has received a patent from the Government of India.
Study Details
Published in Acta Scientific Neurology (ASNE), the study led by Dr. Seema Tewari involved 44 right-handed participants: 22 with diabetes and 22 without. All participants walked through an 11-meter tunnel equipped with DEXA scans and sensors that measured walking speed, balance, and body movement. Researchers also assessed muscle strength, handgrip strength, and walking speed.
Key Findings
The study found that people with diabetes had weaker muscles, particularly in the right leg, compared to those without diabetes. In contrast, non-diabetic individuals had stronger muscles and better balance on both sides. Dr. Tewari explained that right-leg weakness may be linked to changes in the left brain hemisphere, which controls movement. Fluctuating blood sugar levels can affect brain function related to balance and coordination, manifesting as altered walking patterns.
Potential and Limitations
While this method may identify early bodily changes before diabetes symptoms appear, more studies are needed. Blood tests remain essential for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes. However, this walking test could help assess risk early and potentially prevent disease progression. After further validation, it may be used in hospitals and public places to identify at-risk individuals before symptoms emerge. The exact lead time for detection is unknown, necessitating large-scale studies.
Future Research
The team plans to conduct additional studies under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI). Dr. Tewari noted that the test is simple and non-invasive. If proven effective, cameras and artificial intelligence could analyze walking patterns to assess diabetes risk in the future. Other researchers, including Dr. Dilip Verma and Dr. Manish Bajpai, contributed to the study.
