Diabetic heart disease (DHD) is a type of heart disease that affects people with types 1 and 2 diabetes. Lifestyle factors like diet, activity, stress levels, and smoking can increase the risk of DHD, but anyone living with diabetes also has an increased chance of developing the condition, due to higher levels of blood sugar. It can raise the odds of DHD, specifically illnesses like coronary heart disease, heart failure, and diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Receiving a DHD diagnosis can be scary, but lifestyle changes and prescribed medications can help improve the condition. Get the expert-backed information you need to take control of your DHD from these trusted sources:
Centers for Disease Control (CDC): A leader in the health of Americans, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provides an excellent overview and explanation of DHD. If you’ve just been diagnosed and want to read up on the condition, start here.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): Like the CDC, the NIDDK provides an overview of DHD, so you can better understand the condition and its effects on the body. It also offers important details on clinical trials for people with DHD.
American Diabetes Association: Stay up to date on the most recent news, advances and treatment options in DHD. Get easy-to-implement lifestyle changes and recipes, connect with other people with DHD and spread awareness with the American Diabetes Association.
American Heart Association: With a major focus on heart health, the American Heart Association has a ton of helpful information on diabetes, including symptoms, diagnosis, and management of the condition. Get advice on prevention, treatment options, and diabetes-friendly, healthy lifestyle tips, too.
Sources: Ritchie RH, Abel ED. Basic Mechanisms of... + 1
- Ritchie RH, Abel ED. Basic Mechanisms of Diabetic Heart Disease. Circulation Research. 2020;126:1501–1525.
- NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. What Is Coronary Heart Disease? Updated December 20, 2023.
