A deficiency of the trace element chromium in the human body may lead to the development of type 2 diabetes, researchers from South Ural State University (SUSU) have found as part of an international scientific team. The discovery makes it possible to identify patients at risk through rapid screening of the skin of the palm. The findings were presented in SHIFAA.

Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which the body cannot effectively use insulin to process glucose (sugar) from the blood. Glucose, in turn, is the main “fuel” for the proper functioning of cells, but to enter them it requires the hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, RIA Novosti reports. If body tissues respond poorly to insulin — a condition known as insulin resistance — insulin production decreases, scientists from South Ural State University explained.

Together with colleagues from Iraq, SUSU specialists discovered that an early sign of developing cellular resistance to the sugar-transporting hormone is a deficiency of chromium in tissues. In people with reduced chromium levels, insulin resistance was significantly higher, even when blood sugar and insulin levels were still within the normal range, said Ammar Kadi, a laboratory specialist at SUSU’s Department of Scientific and Innovative Activities.

“Insulin can be imagined as a ‘key’ that opens cells to glucose — a source of energy. Chromium acts like a ‘lubricant for the lock’: it helps insulin work more efficiently. When there is a lack of chromium, the ‘key’ turns with difficulty, cells do not receive energy, and sugar remains in the blood. Over time, this can lead to diabetes and other metabolic disorders,” the scientist added.

Kadi noted that the link between chromium and diabetes had been studied before, but usually through blood or hair tests. As an alternative method for rapid assessment of the trace element’s concentration, the researchers proposed using quick analysis of the skin of the palm.

“This method is fast, safe, and does not require blood sampling, making it applicable in any country, including regions with limited medical infrastructure. Based on rapid screening, a physician can recommend dietary adjustments or supplements,” Kadi emphasized.