Pathophysiology and Prevention of Heart Disease in Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has become a public health problem worldwide, and it has large implications for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this article, we discuss the etiology and pathophysiology of CVD in DM including the effects of abnormal glucose homeostasis, genetic factors, epigenetics, apoptosis, common pathophysiological mechanisms shared by both DM and CVD, and contributions of other comorbidities. We then cover the pathogenesis of both atherosclerotic disease and cardiomyopathy in relation to DM. Finally, we discuss the prevention of heart disease in DM with a focus on hypertension and dyslipidemia management, weight loss, lifestyle changes, antiplatelet therapy, and glycemic control.