Journal de médecine générale

Cardiovascular Manifestations of Hyperglycemia: A Review Article

Abstract

Jadelis Giquel, Margarita Nieto, Christina Matadial and Christopher Palermo

The overbearing financial burden imposed by the U.S. healthcare system is a complex problem which must be addressed soon. Diabetes, with its multiple cardiovascular sequelae, is currently one of the largest contributors and threatens to worsen as the obesity epidemic blossoms. The implications of atherosclerosis and hypertension related to diabetes may take years to become evident, making the overall disease process a particularly insidious one. Similarities between the biochemical mechanisms of vascular damage in diabetes may someday be the key to preventing its significant morbidity. Until we are able to capitalize on the similarities in the development of complications of hyperglycemia, preventative medicine should be the focus. Lessons should be learned from the widespread success of anti-tobacco legislation and educational programs in decreasing the prevalence of smoking and subsequent pulmonary disease. New York has already passed legislation limiting the size of sugary drinks that can be sold in the city. Efforts should be made to redirect care from the end stages of this particular disease to preventing it in the lower socioeconomic class, where poor diet may be more of an issue.