Cardiovascular risk factors in patients of diabetes mellitus – Integrative review

Abstract

Due to the increase in the Risk of Cardiovascular Events, the WHO has advocated for public policies that address social and population issues in primary prevention, with the identification of individuals at high cardiovascular risk being valid in order to individualize treatment. In this sense, diabetics are the group whose main cause of death is CVD, whose medications aimed at controlling this chronic disease have the potential to reduce complications. The objective of this study is to investigate the cardiovascular risk factors in patients with Diabetes Mellitus and their possible repercussions. A search was carried out in the PubMed and LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences) databases, through the Virtual Health Library (VHL), using the descriptors "Risk Factors for Heart Disease", "Metabolic Syndrome" and "Diabetes Mellitus". The present study evidences Diabetes Mellitus (DM) as a risk factor for cardiovascular complications that enable endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. In summary, the prevention and effective control of Diabetes Mellitus are essential to reduce the impact of cardiovascular complications associated with this condition. Multifactorial approaches, including lifestyle interventions and pharmacological treatment, are essential for the management of cardiovascular risk. Therefore, it is crucial to reinforce prevention strategies, especially for patients with DM, with the aim of improving quality of life and reducing morbidity and mortality related to cardiovascular risk in this vulnerable population.