When it comes to heart health, especially for those with type 2 diabetes, it’s not just about diet and exercise.
A recent study presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) Annual Meeting in Germany has uncovered unexpected factors that may contribute to the risk of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
In this condition, the heart suddenly stops pumping blood.
Understanding SCA is vital because it accounts for up to 50% of cardiac deaths and 20% of all deaths in wealthier countries.
For individuals with type 2 diabetes who already have double the risk of SCA, identifying and addressing additional risk factors is crucial, especially for those with no prior history of heart disease.
Led by Peter Harms and his team from Amsterdam UMC in the Netherlands, this study investigated the medical records of 3,919 individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Among them, 689 had experienced sudden cardiac arrest between 2010 and 2019 in Noord-Holland, a region in the Netherlands.
The researchers examined various clinical measurements and medication use over five years before each SCA case. They also compared this data to up to five individuals without SCA for each case. This comprehensive analysis revealed some noteworthy findings.
The study found that certain commonly prescribed drugs, including specific antibiotics, antipsychotic medications, and prokinetics (medications used to manage gastrointestinal issues like nausea), were associated with an increased risk of SCA.
These drugs are known as “QTc-prolonging” drugs and can affect the heart’s electrical system. Examples include the antibiotic macrolides and the antipsychotic haloperidol.
One unexpected discovery was that low fasting blood sugar, often seen as a sign of strict blood sugar control, was linked to a 150% increase in SCA risk among individuals without a history of cardiovascular disease.
For those with existing heart disease, factors such as albuminuria (a condition indicating kidney problems) and heart failure were significantly associated with SCA.
Peter Harms emphasized that while general practitioners may be aware of conventional SCA risk factors like high blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes, they might be less informed about the risks of low fasting glucose and specific medications.
This study highlights the importance of healthcare providers understanding various factors that could elevate the risk of SCA, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
While conventional risk factors like high blood pressure are crucial, healthcare professionals should also consider less common factors such as strict blood sugar control and specific medications.
With this knowledge, healthcare providers can offer a more comprehensive approach to diabetes management, considering the long-term impact of treatments and management strategies on cardiovascular health.
This approach aims to support patients in their current circumstances and safeguard their future heart health.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about How to choosing the right fruits for type 2 diabetes and findings of New higher dose diabetes drug promises better blood sugar control and weight loss.
For more information about heart health, please see recent studies about new way to prevent heart attacks and strokes, and results showing this drug for heart disease may reduce COVID-19 risk.
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