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The Darwinization of Diabetes
Sanjay Kalra1, Agam Vora2, Mangesh Tiwaskar3
1Consultant, Department of Endocrinology, Bharti Research Institute of Diabetes & Endocrinology, Karnal, Haryana, India, Corresponding Author.
The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India
|August 3, 2026
Summary
Diabetes is evolving, mirroring Darwin's natural selection. Its classification, features, and management strategies are changing, a phenomenon termed the "Darwinization of diabetes." This highlights the dynamic nature of the disease.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Evolutionary Biology
- Medical History
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder with increasing global prevalence.
- The disease has demonstrated significant changes in its characteristics and management over time.
- This evolving nature necessitates a new framework for understanding its progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and define the concept of the "Darwinization of diabetes."
- To describe the evolutionary changes in diabetes classification, clinical presentation, and management.
- To provide a novel perspective on understanding the dynamic nature of diabetes.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis and synthesis of historical and current data on diabetes.
- Comparative analysis of diabetes evolution with Darwinian evolutionary principles.
- Literature review of diabetes classification, clinical features, comorbidities, complications, and treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Diabetes prevalence has surged dramatically in recent decades.
- Significant shifts observed in diabetes classification systems and diagnostic criteria.
- Evolving clinical features, increased comorbidities, and novel complications are evident.
- Management strategies have transformed, reflecting a dynamic adaptation of the disease.
Conclusions:
- The term "Darwinization of diabetes" encapsulates the ongoing evolutionary changes in the disease.
- Understanding this "Darwinization" is crucial for adapting clinical practice and research.
- This evolutionary perspective offers a framework for future diabetes research and patient care.
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