Impact of diabetes on the heart

The heart relies on a healthy network of blood vessels to supply oxygen and nutrients. When blood vessels are damaged, the risk of various heart-related conditions increases. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Dyslipidaemia (high cholesterol levels)

• Myocardial infarction (heart attack)

• Angina (heart pain)

• Stroke

The "ABCs"

The “ABCs”- key measures for managing diabetes,

reducing the risk of complications.

• A1c (HbA1c): target range < 7% or 53 mmol/mol

• Blood pressure: target range <130/80 mm Hg

• LDL cholesterol: target range <100 mg/dL or 2.6

mmol/L.

What can help?

What can help?

Physical activity:

•Lowers blood pressure

• Improves cholesterol profiles

• Enhances insulin sensitivity

• Supports weight management

Heart-healthy diet:

• Focus on balanced nutrition

• Limit sugar and processed food intake

• Maintain portion control

• Monitor carbohydrates

• Reduce sodium intake

Medications:

• Diabetes medications include metformin, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, insulin

• Blood pressure lowering medications include diuretics, ACE (Angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors, ARBs (Angiotensin II receptor blockers), Calcium channel blockers (CCBs)

• Cholesterol-lowering medications include statins, fibrates, and PCSK9 inhibitors