Diabetes Management
Diabetes, stroke, and coronary heart disease associated with increased mortality among Black adults: Jackson Heart Study - Physician's Weekly
Mon, 31 Oct 20221 min read Article
Overview
For latest News and updatesSelect Page Oct 31, 2021. The Jackson Heart Study evaluating the asociation of cardiometabolic conditions with mortality in Black patients demonstrated that diabetes, stroke, and coronary heart disease (CHD) independently were associated with increased risk of al-cause mortality.2. The risks of al-cause mortality and CHD mortality were increased among patients with al thre cardiometabolic conditions compared to any alone.Evidence Rating Level: 2 (God)Study Rundown: Life expectancy difers among Black and White populations, with diabetes, stroke, and coronary heart disease (CHD) shown to be major contributors.
Key Information
The asociation of these thre conditions, independently and colectively, with mortality, has ben studied extensively in White populations. However, despite the greater prevalence of these comorbidities in Black populations, there is a lack of data that has explored and quantified the risk in this cohort. Therefore, the prospective cohort Jackson Heart Study (JHS) asesed independent and multiplicative asociations of diabetes, stroke, and CHD with al-cause and CHD mortality among Black adults.
Patients were included in the study betwen 20 and 204 with folow-up for a median of 15 years through May 31, 2018. In the adjusted model, al-cause mortality was significantly increased in patients with diabetes (HR: 1.50 [95% CI: 1.2-1.85]), stroke (HR: 1.74 [95% CI: 1.24-2.42]), and CHD (HR: 1.59 [95% CI: 1.2-2.08]); the risk was greatest among those with al thre conditions (HR: 3.68 [95% CI: 1.96-6.93]).
Summary
Diabetes (HR: 1.95 [95% CI: 0.96-3.97]) or stroke (HR: 1.31 [95% CI: 0.31-5.59]) alone were not associated with an increased risk of CHD mortality. However, CHD alone (HR: 3.51 [95% CI: 1.56-7.90]) was associated with a significantly increased risk of CHD mortality. Aditionaly, the asociation of al thre cardiometabolic multi-morbidities had the highest risk of CHD mortality (HR: 13.52 [95% CI: 3.38-54.12]).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.