Diabetes and Cardiovascular Risk
Diabetes significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Persistent hyperglycemia contributes to endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, and inflammation. Other coexisting conditions—such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity—compound cardiovascular risk. Management includes blood sugar, lipid, and blood pressure control, often through lifestyle interventions and medications like statins, antihypertensives, and antiplatelets. Newer antidiabetic drugs like SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists have demonstrated heart-protective effects. Regular cardiovascular screening is crucial for early detection. Integrating cardiometabolic care into diabetes management can significantly reduce mortality and improve long-term outcomes.