The Importance Of Knowing The Critical Link Between Diabetes And Heart Disease Amid COVID-19

Did you know that there is a critical link between diabetes and heart disease? In a study, it was found that 52% of Type 2 Diabetes patients died due to a cardiovascular disease, making it the leading cause of death for people with diabetes. High blood sugar, if uncontrolled, can impair blood vessels and nerves. Consequently, not only can it lead to an increase in blood pressure levels and bad cholesterol—it can also increase the risk of getting infected by COVID-19 (with other symptoms). In the Philippine setting, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), there have been four million recorded cases of diabetes as of May this year. 

Aimed at raising awareness of the link between diabetes and heart disease, Beohringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc. started a special tie-up with medical societies and patient groups for the “For Your SweetHeart” campaign—with added support from the Philippine Heart Association (PHA), Institute for Studies on Diabetes Foundation Inc. (ISDFI), American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), Philippine Society of Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism (PSEDM), Diabetes Philippines (DP), Philippine Association of Diabetes Educators (PADE), Association of Diabetes Nurse Educators of the Philippines, Inc. (ADNEP), and Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO).

Its ambassador, TV personality Kim Atienza shared that the project is close to his heart as his mom and grandparents have likewise suffered from diabetes. “Like many Filipinos, I can relate to how we always want what is best for the health and well-being of our loved ones. I always check up on my mother and make sure she’s leading a healthy lifestyle,” he said. 

The official website contains an assessment tool by the Framingham 10-year Heart Disease Risk Test that can check if one is experiencing any signs and symptoms of such illness. On the platform, patients can input information on their total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure.

Staying informed of such link can “help patients and those taking care of them to determine meaningful and necessary life-changing steps.” Cardiologist and Philippine Heart Association President Dr. Orly Bugarin stressed, “There are ways to minimize the risk of cardiovascular disease for those with diabetes. Being aware of the impact of diabetes on heart health is a critical first step as well as consulting your doctor, so you know the best medical options to manage the disease.”

Log on to For Your Sweetheart today.