What is the connection between type 2 diabetes mellitus and ischemic heart disease?
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant risk factor for ischemic heart disease (IHD). Chronically elevated blood glucose in T2DM leads to endothelial dysfunction, accelerated atherosclerosis, inflammation, and lipid abnormalities, which can narrow or block coronary arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart. Patients with T2DM often have coexisting risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, and insulin resistance, further increasing the likelihood of myocardial infarction or other cardiac events. Strict control of blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol, along with lifestyle interventions, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, and smoking cessation, is essential to reduce cardiovascular risk in diabetes.