The association between diabetes, risk of heart disease, and death have been the focus of interest in recent years for many researchers. However, the results of many studies and even the terms used, such as “prediabetes,” remain controversial.
A new review published in The BMJ Today is gaining attention, however, as it has found that prediabetes is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and death in both the general population and in patients with a history of heart problems.
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To explore the relationship between the health problems, researchers at Southern Medical University in China analyzed the results of 129 studies on the associations between prediabetes and the risk of cardiovascular disease and death in individuals with and without a history of heart disease. This included over 10 million individuals.
The study concluded that in the general population, Prediabetes was associated with a 13% increased risk of death and a 15% increased risk of cardiovascular disease over an average of 10 years. It was also shown that prediabetes carried a higher risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.
In individuals with a history of heart disease, prediabetes was associated with a 36% increased risk of death and a 37% increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This was found over an average follow-up time of three years. There was no difference recorded for the risk of stroke.
In patients who had impaired glucose tolerance (higher than normal blood sugar levels after eating), there was a higher risk of death, coronary heart disease, and stroke. This was compared to individuals who had impaired fasting glucose (higher than normal blood sugar levels after a period of fasting).
Researchers concluded, “Prediabetes is associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality and CVD in both the general population and patients with a history of heart disease. Screening and proper management of prediabetes “may contribute to primary and secondary prevention of CVD.”
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This research is of high quality and is noted as being one of the largest studies to analyze the relationship between diabetes, heart disease, and early death. It was noted, however, that researchers had no access to individual patients’ data and could not rule out the possibility that some of the risks could be caused by unmeasured factors.
A Pre-Diagnosis
It is estimated that more than 470 million people worldwide will have prediabetes by 2030, and up to 70% of them will eventually develop type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is known as a “pre-diagnosis” of diabetes. This is when a person’s blood sugar level is higher than normal, but not enough to be considered diabetes. When patients are diagnosed as prediabetic, it should be taken as a warning sign of type 2 diabetes.
With so many people developing prediabetes worldwide, it is essential for research to continue to find relationships between the disease and other health issues. The findings of this study suggest that screening and proper management of prediabetes may help to prevent cardiovascular disease in otherwise healthy individuals as well as those with already existing heart problems.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
