[Cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients: risk factors, clinical history and prevention]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of mortality in diabetes mellitus (DM).
• Hyperglycemia in DM accelerates atherosclerosis through endothelial activation and dysfunction.
• Managing CVD risk factors alongside blood glucose is crucial for diabetic patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the link between diabetes, hyperglycemia, and cardiovascular complications.
• To emphasize the importance of considering CVD safety in antidiabetic drug selection.
• To underscore the need for novel therapeutic strategies in diabetes management.

Main Methods:

• Review of current understanding of hyperglycemia's role in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of cardiovascular outcome studies for antidiabetic agents (e.g., LEADER, SUSTAIN-6, EMPA-REG OUTCOME).
• Discussion on the multifactorial causes of CVD in diabetic patients.

Main Results:

• Endothelial dysfunction, triggered by hyperglycemia, is an early indicator of atherosclerotic disease.
• Recent studies demonstrate the cardiovascular safety and efficacy profiles of specific antidiabetic agents.
• Evidence supports the need for diabetologists to consider comprehensive risk factor management.

Conclusions:

• A healthy lifestyle and multifactorial risk control are essential for preventing CVD in diabetes.
• Antidiabetic agent selection requires rigorous evaluation of both glucose-lowering efficacy and cardiovascular safety.
• Emerging therapeutic approaches are vital for improving outcomes in diabetic patients with high CVD risk.