A recent Swedish study has confirmed that developing type 1 diabetes (T1D) in adulthood is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. Analysis of over 10,000 adults diagnosed with T1D showed no better long-term prognosis for those diagnosed at age ≥40 compared to younger patients. Key risk factors for poor outcomes include smoking, obesity, poor glucose control, and lower use of insulin pumps among older adults. Even when diagnosed later in life, these patients face elevated risks of heart disease, stroke, and premature death.
Cardiovascular Deaths in Diabetes Patients Rise in England
A new report by Diabetes UK revealed that nearly 29% of all cardiovascular deaths in England occur in people with diabetes, a stark increase from 15% in 2009. The economic burden is equally concerning, with the UK spending £10.7 billion annually on diabetes care, projected to rise to £18 billion by 2035. Despite existing guidelines, over a third of diabetes patients missed essential care checks in 2023-24.
Preventive Measures and Policy Urgency
Both studies emphasize that many cardiovascular complications in diabetes are preventable through better management of smoking, obesity, blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol. However, gaps in routine care and delayed adoption of advanced treatments remain significant barriers.
Diabetes UK urges the government to integrate diabetes prevention and management into its upcoming 10-year health plan, with clear targets for reducing CVD-related deaths and disabilities. Experts stress that political will and systemic healthcare improvements are crucial to reversing these alarming trends.
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