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Results from the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) prove that intensive blood sugar control reduces the long-term risk of heart disease complications by 50%. The results indicate that intensive blood sugar control is even more important in reducing these risks than blood pressure- and cholesterol-lowering drugs. Original participants in the trial received intensive blood glucose control for 6 years during the 1980s. Researchers continued to follow these patients’ progress during the next 17 years. A follow-up study, published in 2005 in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that the benefits of tight blood glucose control persisted over time and halved the risk of heart attack, stroke, angina, or coronary artery disease.
Aspirin for Reducing the Risk for Blood Clots. Taking a daily aspirin reduces the risk for blood clotting and may help protect against heart attacks. In a 2000 study, low-dose aspirin was associated with a 30% lower risk for death from heart disease in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Reducing Blood Pressure. Strict control of blood pressure is critical for preventing complications of diabetes and has proven to improve survival rates. Patients should strive for blood pressure levels of less than 130/80 mm Hg (systolic/diastolic). (Controlling systolic pressure may be especially important for reducing the risk for kidney complications.)
Dozens of anti-hypertensive drugs are available. Most fall into the following categories:
- Diuretics rid the body of extra sodium (salt) and water. There are three main types of diuretics: Potassium-sparing, thiazide, and loop.
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors reduce the production of angiotensin, a chemical that causes arteries to narrow.
- Angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) block angiotensin.
- Beta-blockers block the effects of adrenaline and ease the heart’s pumping action.
- Calcium-channel blockers (CCBs) decrease the contractions of the heart and widen blood vessels.
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