Have you ever noticed small, soft growths on your skin and wondered what they mean? While skin tags are usually harmless, research suggests they could be more than just a cosmetic concern. Really, skin tags could be suggestive of elevated blood sugar and you would see how in this article.
Studies have found a surprising link between skin tags and elevated blood sugar levels, making them potential early indicators of insulin resistance and even type 2 diabetes.
Could these tiny skin growths be your body’s way of warning you about an underlying health issue?
Let’s look at the science behind this connection and what it could mean for your health.
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, benign skin growths commonly found in areas where the skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, and groin.
While generally harmless, emerging research suggests a notable association between the presence of skin tags and elevated blood sugar levels, potentially serving as early indicators of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Understanding The Connection
Several studies have explored the relationship between skin tags and metabolic disorders:
A 2007 study found an increased risk of diabetes in individuals with multiple skin tags.
Furthermore, the study recommends that healthcare providers should consider diabetes screening for such patients (1).
Also, a 2015 study reinforced this link, suggesting that skin tags could serve as markers for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome (2).
A more recent study concluded that skin tags were an indicator for high cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes (3).
Possible Mechanisms Linking Skin Tag And Blood Sugar
The exact mechanism linking skin tags to elevated blood sugar remains under investigation.
However, insulin resistance — a condition where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin—plays a pivotal role.
If you want to treat Skin Tags, Read: How To Treat Skin Tags And Remove Them
Elevated insulin levels may stimulate the growth of skin cells, leading to the formation of skin tags (4) (5).
Additionally, obesity, a common factor in insulin resistance and diabetes, is associated with the development of skin tags.
Clinical Implications
Recognising skin tags as potential markers for metabolic disturbances or elevated blood sugar offers valuable clinical insights:
Early Detection
If you have skin tags, it is good to go for blood glucose level test.
In fact, the presence of multiple skin tags, especially in individuals with additional risk factors like obesity or a family history of diabetes, should prompt healthcare providers to evaluate blood glucose levels and assess for insulin resistance.
Preventive Measures
Identifying insulin resistance early allows for timely interventions, such as lifestyle modifications—including diet and exercise—to prevent or delay the onset of T2DM.
Takeaways
While skin tags are typically benign and often considered a cosmetic concern, their association with elevated blood sugar levels and insulin resistance underscores the importance of a comprehensive medical evaluation.
Individuals noticing an increase in skin tags should consult healthcare professionals to assess their metabolic health, facilitating early detection and management of potential underlying conditions like diabetes.