The Scarcity of Professional Athletes with Type 2 Diabetes: A Predictive Genomics Approach

Amr T. M. Saeb

Genetics and Biotechnology Department, Strategic Center for Diabetes Research, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Amr T. M. Saeb, Genetics and Biotechnology Department, Strategic Center for Diabetes Research, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia.

Keywords: Type 2 Diabetes; Predictive Genomics; Athletic Performance

Abstract

A phenomenon that requires close attention is that there are a considerable number of elite athletes who have type 1 diabetes, such as Gary Mabbutt, who played for the British football teams ‘Tottenham’ and ‘Bristol Rovers’ despite suffering from the condition. Incidentally, Mabutt was also the winner of the 1984 UEFA Cup and the 1991 FA Cup. It is highly uncommon for proficient athletes to have type 2 diabetes and enjoy a high-profile sporting career at the same time, however.

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