 |
Preventing Blood Vessel Disease in People with Diabetes
What is the problem and what is known about it so far?
People with diabetes are much more likely to develop disease of the heart and blood vessels. Disease of large blood vessels, like those of the heart itself (coronary arteries), is the most common cause of death for people with diabetes. Anything that can reduce or prevent disease of the heart and blood vessels could improve the lives of many people with diabetes and avoid many deaths. Why did the researchers do this particular study?
The researchers wanted to study links to disease of the heart and blood vessels in people with diabetes, particularly the control of their blood glucose levels. Who was studied?
The study included 1,792 men who were enrolled in the VA Diabetes Trial, a 7-year study. All of the participants were 40 years old or older, were taking medication for their diabetes, and had high blood glucose levels. How was the study done?
Participants had a physical exam and blood drawn for lab tests. They were followed for seven years. What did the researchers find?
Disease of the heart and blood vessels was more common in participants who were older, who had diabetes for a longer duration, used insulin, had a history of smoking, had high blood pressure, had a higher body mass index (BMI, a measure of weight compared to height), and higher levels of fats and cholesterol in the blood. Long-term glucose levels were not linked to disease of the heart and blood vessels. What were the limitations of the study?
The study only included men, so the results may not apply to women. The study eliminated people with had healthy glucose levels, so differences linked to better glucose control may be missed. What are the implications of the study?
Many factors are linked to disease of the heart and blood vessels, but not long-term glucose levels. Improving blood glucose control may not reduce the illness and deaths caused by disease of the heart and blood vessels. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Stroke
|
Now Available! Late-breaking Diabetes research summaries Read the ADA's research magazine Forefront Wedding Diabetes Forecast - Free Issue! |
|
| Información en español | About Us | Donate Now | Join ADA | Volunteer | Message Boards | Sign up for Enewsletters |
