Diabetes mellitus and stroke: A clinical update

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Endocrinology
• Neurology

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major cause of cardiovascular disease, substantially increasing morbidity and mortality.
• Patients with DM face a four-fold higher risk of stroke compared to the general population.
• Co-existing cardiometabolic risk factors like obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia exacerbate stroke risk in diabetic patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an evidence-based review of stroke in patients with diabetes mellitus.
• To elucidate the epidemiological aspects, pathophysiology, and diagnostic workup for diabetes-related stroke.
• To outline management algorithms for physicians and diabetologists treating patients with diabetes and stroke.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of epidemiological data.
• Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms linking diabetes and stroke.
• Evaluation of current diagnostic criteria and imaging techniques.
• Review of established and emerging management strategies and guidelines.

Main Results:

• Diabetes significantly increases stroke incidence and mortality.
• Multiple cardiometabolic risk factors cluster in diabetic patients, synergistically elevating stroke risk.
• Effective management of diabetes and associated risk factors is critical for stroke prevention.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of diabetes-associated stroke risk factors and their management is essential for healthcare providers.
• Integrated management strategies targeting glycemic control, blood pressure, lipids, and lifestyle modifications are key.
• Further research is needed to optimize stroke prevention and treatment protocols in the diabetic population.