Several factors contribute to telomere shortening, effectively "killing" them by reducing their protective function. According to available research, some key contributors include smoking and diabetes.
Factors Leading to Telomere Shortening
Here's a breakdown of some factors that can lead to telomere shortening:
- Smoking: Smoking has been independently reported as a risk factor for telomere shortening.
- Diabetes: Similar to smoking, diabetes is also linked to the acceleration of telomere shortening.
- Other Factors: While smoking and diabetes are specifically mentioned in the provided research, other factors such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and genetic predisposition also contribute to telomere attrition.
Table Summarizing Factors
| Factor | Effect on Telomeres |
|---|---|
| Smoking | Shortening |
| Diabetes | Shortening |
It is important to consider the combined impact of multiple factors on telomere length. For example, in patients with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), telomere shortening might occur due to the combined effects of factors like smoking and diabetes, which are often prevalent in this population.
