Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Heart Disease

• Diabetes increases heart disease risk due to factors like high blood sugar, which can damage blood vessels.

Key Risk Factors to Monitor

• Blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar control, smoking status, family history, and lifestyle factors.

Recommended Tests and Screenings

• Regular blood tests (lipid profile, HbA1c), blood pressure checks, and possibly ECGs or stress tests.

Lifestyle and Medical Management

• Focus on a healthy diet, regular exercise, medication adherence, and routine medical check-ups.

Consulting Healthcare Professionals

• Engage with endocrinologists, cardiologists, and primary care providers for comprehensive risk assessment and management.

Tools and Scores for Risk Assessment

• Utilize risk calculators like the ASCVD risk estimator, specifically designed for diabetic patients.