ABSTRACT
Background: Diabetes mellitus had long been recognized as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary artery disease and heart failure. The metabolic disturbances associated with diabetes, including hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, had been shown to accelerate atherosclerosis, endothelial dysfunction, and myocardial damage. Understanding the precise relationship between diabetes and heart disease remained crucial for early detection, preventive strategies, and effective management.
Aim: The study aimed to investigate the association between diabetes and heart disease by analyzing clinical, biochemical, and lifestyle parameters among patients, thereby contributing to improved risk assessment and targeted interventions.
Methods: This observational study was conducted at Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, over a duration of June 2024 to May 2025. A total of 80 participants were enrolled, consisting of both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. Clinical data, including medical history, cardiovascular evaluations, and laboratory investigations such as lipid profiles and HbA1c levels, were collected. Echocardiographic and electrocardiographic assessments were performed to evaluate cardiac health. Statistical analysis was carried out to determine the correlation between diabetes and cardiovascular outcomes.
Results: The findings demonstrated that diabetic participants exhibited a higher prevalence of hypertension (65%) and dyslipidemia (72%) compared to non-diabetic individuals (38% and 44%, respectively). Echocardiographic assessments revealed left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in 48% of diabetic patients, significantly greater than in the non-diabetic group (20%). HbA1c levels were positively correlated with the severity of cardiac abnormalities (p < 0.05). The study confirmed that diabetes substantially increased the risk of developing heart disease.
Conclusion: The study concluded that diabetes was strongly associated with cardiovascular complications, with poor glycemic control directly contributing to the severity of cardiac outcomes. These findings emphasized the importance of early cardiovascular screening and strict glycemic management in diabetic patients to mitigate long-term cardiovascular risks.
Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, Heart disease, Cardiovascular risk, Glycemic control, Hypertension, Dyslipidemia.