The risk of cardiovascular disease increases the longer a person lives with type 2 diabetes, according to a new study published in the journal Diabetes. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that after several years with the condition, red blood cells can change in ways that damage blood vessels and elevate the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The study suggests that these harmful changes in red blood cells, which interfere with healthy blood vessel function, were not present in newly diagnosed patients but emerged over time. This finding offers a potential explanation for why the risk of cardiovascular complications rises steadily with the duration of type 2 diabetes.
"People with type 2 diabetes already face a higher likelihood of heart attacks and strokes," explained Dr. [Name and Title of Lead Researcher at Karolinska Institutet, if available, otherwise use a placeholder]. "Our research indicates that this risk is not static but grows as the disease progresses, potentially due to alterations in red blood cell function."
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes glucose, a major source of energy. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to a host of complications, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and eye damage. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death for people with diabetes.
The researchers also identified a specific small molecule within red blood cells that could potentially serve as a biomarker for identifying cardiovascular risk early in patients with type 2 diabetes. This molecule could allow for earlier intervention and potentially mitigate the long-term cardiovascular consequences of the disease.
"Identifying this molecule is a significant step," said Dr. [Name and Title of Cardiologist or Endocrinologist not involved in the study, if available, otherwise use a placeholder]. "It offers the possibility of developing a diagnostic tool to assess cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients and tailor treatment strategies accordingly."
The study involved [Number] participants with varying durations of type 2 diabetes. Researchers analyzed blood samples to assess red blood cell function and identify potential biomarkers. The findings highlight the importance of early diagnosis and aggressive management of blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes to minimize the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Further research is planned to validate the biomarker and explore potential therapeutic interventions targeting red blood cell dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes. The ultimate goal is to develop strategies to prevent or delay the onset of cardiovascular disease in this high-risk population.
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