Preventing and Managing Vascular Complications in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes

The morbidity and mortality associated with Type 1 diabetes are primarily linked to vascular complications. While overt clinical manifestations of microvascular complications and cardiovascular disease predominantly occur during adulthood, a noteworthy proportion of adolescents with Type 1 diabetes have one or more risk factors for the development of vascular complications. In addition, early subclinical stages of vascular complications can be detected already in youth with diabetes. Intensive diabetes management and targeted screening strategies can effectively delay or halt the progression of these complications. Preventative strategies should focus on three main principles: achieving optimal glycemic targets, preventing and targeting cardiometabolic risk factors, and implementing early screening programs. For managing complications, a comprehensive approach is essential, combining insulin therapy to optimize glycemic targets, motivational lifestyle interventions, and timely pharmacological treatments. This review summarizes the epidemiology and risk factors for vascular complications in youth with Type 1 diabetes and emphasizes the importance of early detection and prevention, and effective treatment strategies.