Originally published: 30.OCT.2022
Last updated: 25.FEB.2024
Medically reviewed by Zara Fullerton, Senior Medical Content Manager
Cardiovascular diseases are the number one cause of death globally, responsible for around 17.9 million lives each year. And, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), identifying those at risk, such as those with higher blood glucose levels, can prevent premature deaths and other potential heart complications [1].
See also: What are the Best Treatments for Diabetes?
What is the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that diabetes and heart disease often go “hand in hand” [2]. In fact, statistics suggest that if you have diabetes, you're twice as likely to develop heart disease than someone without the condition.
While the high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can make it difficult for the heart to function properly, those with diabetes are also more likely to have certain conditions that can increase a person's risk of cardiovascular disease, including:
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High blood pressure: A condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. This can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease and stroke.
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High levels of LDL cholesterol: High LDL cholesterol refers to elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein, a form of cholesterol associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. LDL cholesterol can accumulate in arteries, forming plaques that hinder blood flow and contribute to conditions like heart attacks and strokes.
See also: Diabetes-Friendly Foods: 10 Foods to Help Control Blood Sugar
What are the advantages of regular check-ins with your provider?
One of the primary behavioral factors of both heart disease and stroke are an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake - each of which can be controlled and managed to help in preventing cardiovascular disease [2].
However, there are some risk factors and some conditions, that can go unnoticed without regular testing and general health check-ups. This means that there are several benefits of checking in with your healthcare provider on a regular basis, including:
- Access to the correct treatment early
- Detect conditions or any problems early
- Stay in the know about your overall health
- Reduce and/or prevent chances of cardiovascular diseases
What do heart check-ups involve?
For those living with diabetes or other medical conditions, your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing. According to the American Heart Association, some common non-invasive tests include [3]:
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Electrocardiogram: This is a simple non-invasive test used to measure your heart's electrical activity
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Stress test: Sometimes known as the treadmill test, this test is used to help gain insight into how your heart functions during exercise
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Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to take a picture of your heart, this image can be used to examine the heart structure
See also: Simple Steps for a Healthy Heart
One of the best and most reliable ways to know more about your average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months and/or how well your diabetes is being managed is through a test - this can be done with your local doctor or from home with LetsGetChecked’s Diabetes Testing option.
LetsGetChecked’s Diabetes Test for HbA1c, also known as an A1c test, can provide insight into your blood sugar levels over some time. This test is helpful both to screen if you’re at risk for prediabetes or diabetes or to help manage diabetes. It’s important to know that for people with diabetes, this test is not a replacement for regular blood sugar testing as recommended by your healthcare provider.
This test is performed by taking a simple finger prick sample which is sent to the same labs used by doctors and hospitals. Your online results will be available within 5 days and our clinical team will be available to answer any questions you may have.
See also: How do you Check for Diabetes From Home?
Check out our Heart Health knowledge hub for the insights you need to stay on top of your heart health.
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