Diabetes rates are lower in high-altitude environments & scientists may have discovered why

[Judi Lynn]

New research points to an unexpected role of red blood cells in controlling blood sugar

By: Science Desk
4 min read Updated: Apr 6, 2026 06:54 PM IST



By: Science Desk
4 min read Updated: Apr 6, 2026 06:54 PM IST

Scientists discovered that red blood cells take up extra glucose from the bloodstream in a low-oxygen atmosphere, rather than utilising it as fuel. (Image for representation: Freepik)Scientists discovered that red blood cells take up extra glucose from the bloodstream in a low-oxygen atmosphere, rather than utilising it as fuel. (Image for representation: Freepik)

For years, scientists have observed a curious pattern: people living at high altitudes, from the Andes to the Himalayas, tend to have lower rates of diabetes. While the link has been clear, the reason behind it has remained uncertain. New research offers a possible explanation, and it centres on how the body behaves in low-oxygen conditions.

Deeper insights into oxygen levels and blood sugar

The human body undergoes various adjustments to cope with hypoxia, which is when the environment lacks oxygen, such as at high altitudes. According to a recent experiment on mice, one of these mechanisms might directly impact blood sugar.

Scientists discovered that red blood cells take up extra glucose from the bloodstream in a low-oxygen atmosphere, rather than utilising it as fuel. These cells instead transform the glucose into a substance that aids in distributing oxygen throughout body tissues.

“The study demonstrates how vital the role of red blood cells is in diabetes management,” Isha Jain, who conducted the study and is a biochemist at the Gladstone Institutes and the University of California, San Francisco, told the Live Science website. “That’s the concept to be targeted in the future.”

More:
https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/diabetes-rates-are-lower-in-high-altitude-environments-scientists-may-have-discovered-whydiabetes-rates-are-lower-in-high-altitude-environments-and-scientists-may-have-discovered-why-10622137/

[niyad]

1. Thank you for this fascinating article. Will have to read much more

closely with regard to what, exactly, is "high altitude" to them.

[Pinback]

11. Unfortunately, I don't think "being high" counts.

[niyad]

12. That does not apply to me, unless being at 6,300 ft counts.

[Buddyzbuddy]

2. Really good article, thank you for bringing it to us.

Maybe there is somebody here that can answer a question I have.

Those with sleep apnea are oxygen starved. If this theory were to hold then why would so many with sleep apnea not have fewer diabetics?

[live love laugh]

5. Consistent oxygen deprivation vs. deprivation only while asleep may matter.

[Buddyzbuddy]

7. Actually, my understanding is oxygen deprivation due to sleep apnea

can be measured throughout the day.

[live love laugh]

8. They only do diagnostics and treatment during/for sleep. I've never heard of nonsleep interventions.

AI Overview

Sleep apnea is generally not detected by measuring oxygen levels during the day, as oxygen saturation usually remains normal (95-100%) when awake. Daytime apnea episodes are extremely rare, except in severe cases of central sleep apnea. Diagnosis relies on detecting significant dips in oxygen levels during sleep.

[Buddyzbuddy]

9. Physicians measure oxygen levels during the day

and can determine deprivation measured in percentages.

[live love laugh]

10. Oxygen levels may be measured anytime but not in connection with the effects of sleep apnea.

[Buddyzbuddy]

13. Please note, I'm not a medical professional but

I have been told by doctors that were measuring for oxygen levels in sleep apnea patients at times other than sleep apnea testing. I was surprised they could measure the effects of apnea on oxygen levels at different times of day.

[live love laugh]

14. Doctors (plural) .... really? Interesting.

[Attilatheblond]

3. Interesting article

Wondering if those mountain people also get more exercise.

[live love laugh]

4. Amazing discovery thanks for sharing this.

[Wonder Why]

6. I moved upstairs and lowered my A1C by 1/2. I also stopped eating because the fridge was downstairs.