Lifestyle and outcome among patients with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest growing public health problems in both developed and developing countries. Cardiovascular disease is the most prevalent complication of type 2 diabetes. Data from prospective studies have shown that regular physical activity is an efficient tool in the prevention of cardiovascular disease events in type 2 diabetic patients. The favorable association of physical activity with longevity was observed regardless of the levels of body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and smoking. Several dietary factors modify the risk of type 2 diabetes, and also the risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with diabetes. For instance coffee drinking reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes in the population, and furthermore in type 2 diabetic patients it is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular risk. Results from clinical trials have indicated that lifestyle changes, including dietary modification and increase in physical activity, can prevent type 2 diabetes. Public health messages, health care professionals, and the health care system should strongly promote physical activity and healthy nutritional habits during daily life and prevent overweight and obesity. Prevention of cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes should start from the prevention of diabetes itself.