Impact of Diabetes on Heart
Authors: - Zoya Zabeen , - Dr. Uday Singh Yadav 
Published: March 2024

Diabetes is sometimes described as the "coronary equivalent." A coronary equivalent refers to a condition or risk factor that increases the likelihood of developing coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels supplying the heart. Identifying and managing these coronary equivalents is crucial for preventing and mitigating the severity of CAD". These illnesses are regarded as coronary equivalents since they have been linked to a higher risk of CAD and would need the same therapies and management techniques as CAD. Diabetes has the potential to significantly affect the heart and circulatory system. Additionally, diabetes patients are more likely to smoke, be obese, be inactive physically, and have other heart disease risk factors. some diabetic treatments, including insulin, and sulfonylureas, might raise the danger of hypoglycaemia, which can cause heart rhythm problems and even sudden death. The risk of heart disease can be decreased by preventing and controlling diabetes by lifestyle modifications like consistent exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management, as well as with the use of the proper medical care. Diabetes complications, especially impact on heart and circulatory system, must be prevented and managed by closely monitoring blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

Lowering cardiovascular risk factors and treating the illness he high frequency of health issues and death from cardiovascular disease in those at risk for and with diabetes has made this a more crucial and all-encompassing component of diabetes care. Additionally, there are drugs that can aid in lowering risk factors and the prevalence of heart-related illnesses. With precise guidelines, more attention is placed on lowering the likelihood of developing heart and kidney issues and safeguarding these organs from harm. For patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and/or those at high risk for heart and kidney disease, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease, the recommendations center on selecting drugs properly. SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP-1 receptor agonists are typically the recommended treatments. More than ever, there are drugs available now that help treat or prevent these additional illnesses as well as blood glucose levels.
The Standards synchronized the blood pressure target with other significant organizations that established these recommendations. A systolic blood pressure of less than 130 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure of less than 80 mmHg (130/80 mmHg) is now considered high blood pressure.

For adults with diabetes and risk factors for ASCVD who are 40 to 75 years old, the target LDL-cholesterol level is 70 mg/dL, and for those who already have ASCVD, the target LDL-cholesterol level is 55 mg/dL. In addition, if the goal level is not reached, it is advised to achieve an LDL reduction of 50% or more from the beginning point LDL with a high intensity statin drug and then use a different drug, such as ezetimibe or a PCSK9, if necessary. This emphasizes the significance of managing and preventing cardiovascular disease.