Diabetes is a serious and rising global epidemic. The syndrome has nei
ther a distinct etiology, nor a defined pathogenesis. Chromium (Cr) is
an essential trace element which appears to be implicated in glucose
metabolism. On the other hand, there are great metabolic and chemical
similarities between Cr and aluminum (Al). It may seem to suggest a si
mple mechanism whereby Al might possibly help induce diabetes. Therefo
re, we have undertaken to assess Al/Cr ratio in plasma and urine sampl
es of diabetics and healthy volunteers. In the present study it has be
en found that the ratio in diabetics was higher than those of the cont
rol group.