Cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients: risk factors, clinical history and prevention

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) in which there is a rapid evolution and widespread early atherosclerosis, whose causes are manifold. In the presence of hyperglycemia there is the activation of multiple signaling responses involving, first endothelial activation and later dysfunction, which are the first detectable step toward the atherosclerotic disease. A healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone for the prevention and control of CVD in patients with DM, in whom we must pursue the control, not only of blood sugar levels, but also of all risk factors for CVD. The choice for an antidiabetic agent is based not only on its effectiveness but also on its safety. The data obtained from the recent cardiovascular outcome studies such as the LEADER and SUSTAIN-6 for liraglutide and semaglutide, respectively, and the EMPA-REG OUTCOME for empagliflozin, testify the need for the diabetologist of new therapeutic approaches to control glucose levels.