A new Swedish study reveals that the risk of heart disease varies depending on the type of diabetes and a person’s age and gender. These findings could lead to more personalized care plans for individuals living with diabetes, a condition that already increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events.
Key Findings: Risk levels differ between type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Better blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol control are crucial for reducing risk.
STUDY DETAILS: Data from over 400,000 adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were analyzed.
People with diabetes are known to be at increased risk for heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and premature death. However, research published on October 2, 2025, indicates that the level of risk associated with cardiovascular disease differs based on age, gender, and the specific type of diabetes a person has. The large-scale Swedish study, conducted between 2016 and 2020, draws on data from several national registers.
“The results can help both people with diabetes and healthcare providers identify those at highest risk for cardiovascular disease and provide them with extra support and attention,” explained Vagia Patsoukaki, a specialist physician at Uppsala University Hospital and researcher at Uppsala University. This support could include improved management of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol, as well as guidance on diet and exercise.
Researchers investigated a variety of risk factors, including the duration of the disease, blood sugar levels, weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Preliminary analysis suggests that type 1 diabetes may carry a greater risk increase for women than for men, across all age groups. Maintaining good blood sugar control is particularly vital for individuals with type 1 diabetes, as elevated blood sugar increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
The findings highlight the importance of individualized diabetes management and underscore the need for proactive cardiovascular risk assessment in this patient population. Understanding these nuanced risks can help healthcare professionals tailor interventions to better protect the health of individuals living with diabetes.
