LVR-Klinikum Düsseldorf Hospital of the Heinrich-Heine University ...

3.2.1.2 Psychodiabetology
Director: J. Kruse; W. Tress,
Personnel: M. Cavka, L. Joksimovic, U. Naworotzky,
M. Nigro, H. Sager, K. Schnitzler, U. Simson
The research group studies somatopsychic and
psychosomatic factors of diabetes mellitus. Within the
context of a population-related sample, the research
group has shown that over a course of 30 years depressive
symptoms lead to significantly increased mortality in
people with diabetes. At an epidemiological level, the
group – funded by the Heigl Foundation – together with
the GSF in Munich is investigating within the framework
of the KORA Study the significance of depression and
traumatic life experiences for quality of life, functionality
and gylcaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. In a
further population-based cross-sectional study, predictors
of depression were defined. At a clinical level, the research
group has used randomised controlled intervention studies
to test the effectiveness of psychotherapeutic interventions
within the context of a psychosomatic consultation service.
At the same time, the research group is taking part very
Staff in conversation in front of the Department of
Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy
ReseaRch
successfully, as a study centre, in the depression and
diabetes study (DAD study). This multi-centre study is
investigating the effects of a cognitive behavioural therapy
on depression in people with insulin-dependent diabetes
who are being treated in specialised diabetes practices.
This study receives funding from the FMER until 2011 in the
“Clinical Studies” funding programme.
In terms of basic research, in cooperation with the German
Diabetes Centre the research group is investigating
psychosomatic links at a neuroendocrinological level. In
experimental studies, the modification by psychosocial
influence factors of the immune response to glucose
stimulation is being studied. The immune response to
glucose is considered to be a significant factor in the
pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and the development of
complications. The research group is therefore looking at
the question of how far glucose-induced immune responses
are exacerbated by psychosocial stress. The research group
is cooperating intensively with the German Diabetes Society
and the DGPM/DKPM to develop guidelines for psychosocial
healthcare for people with diabetes.
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