Risk factors for carotid plaque formation in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) significantly increases the risk of atherosclerosis.
• The specific risk factors for carotid atherosclerosis in T2DM patients require further elucidation.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for targeted prevention and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the risk factors associated with carotid atherosclerotic plaque formation in hospitalized T2DM patients.
• To identify key indicators for predicting carotid plaque in T2DM.
• To provide a basis for early intervention strategies.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 949 T2DM patients was analyzed.
• Carotid ultrasound was used to detect atherosclerotic plaque.
• Biometric data, blood glucose, liver/kidney function, lipid profiles, and islet function were assessed.

Main Results:

• Independent risk factors identified include age, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), diabetes duration, hypertension, male sex, and lipoprotein (a) [Lip (a)].
• These factors showed significant predictive value for carotid plaque in T2DM patients.
• A combined model using these factors demonstrated a high area under the ROC curve (0.816).

Conclusions:

• Age, WHR, diabetes duration, hypertension, male sex, and Lip (a) are primary risk factors for carotid plaque in T2DM.
• A multifactorial approach combining these indicators enhances the prediction of carotid plaque formation.
• These findings support the development of targeted preventive measures for T2DM patients at risk.