World Diabetes Day Highlights Link Between High Blood Sugar and Heart Disease

World Diabetes Day, observed on 14 November each year, brings global attention to the rising prevalence of diabetes and its long-term health risks. With millions living with undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes, experts continue to emphasise the condition’s serious impact on multiple organs, especially the heart.

Rising Diabetes Burden Across Age Groups

Diabetes occurs when the body fails to produce sufficient insulin or cannot use it effectively. This causes persistent high blood sugar levels. Recent estimates show that more than one-tenth of the adult population is living with diabetes, with projections indicating a sharp increase in the coming decades. A large number of individuals remain unaware of their condition, increasing the chances of complications.

How High Blood Sugar Affects Overall Health

Prolonged hyperglycaemia affects the eyes, nerves, kidneys and cardiovascular system. In severe forms, it can lead to kidney failure, nerve damage, stroke and vision impairment. These complications arise slowly and often remain unnoticed until significant damage has occurred, making regular monitoring essential.

Mechanisms Linking Diabetes to Heart Disease

High blood glucose damages the inner walls of blood vessels and affects the nerves that control heart function. This leads to narrowing and stiffening of arteries, restricting blood flow and raising the likelihood of heart attacks. Reduced delivery of oxygen and nutrients further weakens cardiac performance.

Exam Oriented Facts

• World Diabetes Day is observed on 14 November every year.
• Persistent high blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves linked to heart function.
• People with diabetes face higher risks of heart attack, stroke and heart failure.
• Atherosclerosis and chronic inflammation are key pathways connecting diabetes to heart disease.

Key Factors Elevating Cardiovascular Risk

Plaque formation due to cholesterol imbalance is common among people with diabetes, with elevated LDL and triglyceride levels accelerating artery blockage. Insulin resistance impairs heart metabolism, contributing to cardiomyopathy. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress further degrade blood vessel integrity, while autonomic nerve damage disrupts heart rate regulation, increasing susceptibility to arrhythmias and cardiovascular emergencies.