Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease: an Update

Rajaa Almourani, Bhavana Chinnakotla, Richa Patel, L. Romayne Kurukulasuriya, James Sowers

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

50 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose of Review: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in people with diabetes. Our aim was to review the pathophysiology of CVD in diabetes, review related landmark trials, and discuss the cardiovascular benefit of glucose-lowering agents. We have also discussed the role of controversial anti-platelet therapy. Recent Findings: Recent studies have shown the impact of glucose-lowering agents on CVD in people with diabetes. Statins are now recommended for all patients with diabetes over the age of 40 regardless of the LDL level given the cardiovascular benefit of these drugs. Current recommendations suggest a blood pressure < 130/80 for individuals with high cardiovascular risk. Summary: Cardiovascular risk reduction should be an important part of the management of diabetes. Focusing solely on glycemic control may not be the best therapeutic strategy. Multifactorial risk reduction should be taken into account. Lipid-lowering agents and anti-hypertensives should be a corner stone of treatment of diabetes. With currently available data, glucose-lowering agents with cardiovascular benefit should be started early in the disease process.

Original languageEnglish
Article number161
JournalCurrent diabetes reports
Volume19
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1 2019

Keywords

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Dyslipidemia
  • Hypertension
  • Legacy effect
  • Memory effect

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