Better controlling glucose levels can help diabetics reduce their risk of heart disease

In a study of 33,000 people, a team of researchers from Cambridge University found that there are significant benefits for people with diabetes to keep their glucose level in the normal 4 - 5 percent range. By getting their levels closer to that of healthy people, they can reduce their risk of heart attacks by 17 percent. In addition, the researchers found that when glucose levels were kept to 6.6 percent on average, there was a 15 percent reduction in heart disease. As the research team reported, their findings mean that for every 200 people treated for five years, three would be saved from heart attacks. Unfortunately, however, this is easier said than done; people with type 2 diabetes often still have above-average blood sugar levels - even with mediation.

"Previous studies have been inconclusive, leaving diabetics and their doctors unsure as to whether maintaining lower blood sugar levels actually benefited the patients," says lead researcher Dr. Kausik Ray. "Although additional research needs to be conducted, our findings provide insight into the importance of improving glucose levels. However, this has to be done through lifestyle changes, as well as medication."

Dr. Victoria King, of Diabetes UK, cautioned that tighter sugar control is not appropriate for everyone. For some diabetics, including the elderly and those with other health issues, they can suffer from dizziness - and even, coma - should their blood sugar levels become too low. But she agrees that people with diabetes would be well served to keep better control of their blood sugar levels: "Diabetes UK advises that people with diabetes should work towards keeping their blood glucose levels within the target ranges agreed with their healthcare team. This reduces the risk of long-term diabetes complications such as heart disease, kidney disease and stroke, as well as short-term diabetes complications such as hypoglycemia."

News Release: Diabetes hear risk can be cut  www.news.bbc.co.uk  May 22, 2009

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