Forum On The Link Between Diabetes, Heart Disease, And Stroke

Diabetes has long been described as the “sugar disease.” But recently, doctors have described it as a common cause of heart disease and stroke.

Contrary to what the guidelines were in the past, physicians now believe that diabetes is the highest risk factor for cardiovascular disease, ranking diabetes higher than smoking, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or obesity, according to findings presented at the American Diabetes Association’s 62nd annual scientific sessions.

According to New Milford Hospital diabetes educator Dianne Cook, most people with diabetes are unaware of the link between diabetes and heart disease. Of the more than 17 million people living with diabetes, 65 percent will die from a heart attack or stroke.

“I feel it’s very important for people to have screenings for prediabetes and diabetes as part of their routine healthcare,” she said.

There has been a great deal of interest over the past few years in diabetes because of an alarming rise in Type 2 diabetes in children, caused by obesity. There has been an increase in adults, as well.

With Type 2, formerly referred to as adult onset or noninsulin dependent diabetes, the pancreas still produces insulin but the body cannot use it effectively. Because it is a major cause of heart disease and stroke, it is important to recognize diabetes early and treat it aggressively, said endocrinologist Robert Bernstein, MD.

In an attempt to raise awareness of the link between diabetes and heart disease, the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Cardiology have collaborated on a new initiative: “Make the Link! Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Stroke.”

On March 30, at 6:45 pm, New Milford Hospital is sponsoring a community health forum on “Make the Link!”; endocrinologist Dr Bernstein and cardiologist Dr Michael Levine will discuss the link. The forum will include a discussion on the management of diabetes through a cardiac rehab program.

The event is free and open to the public and will be held in the hospital’s Robison Conference Rooms. Preregistration is requested by calling 860-350-7215.