Heart conditions are the most lethal complications of diabetes, but often their risk can be reduced. Diabetes is one of the four major risk factors - along with high blood pressure, smoking and abnormal cholesterol levels - for heart attack.

A heart attack can occur when the coronary arteries become blocked because of the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis), restricting blood to the heart. This condition is called coronary artery disease (CAD). When blood flow to the heart stops, heart tissue begins to die. This event is called a heart attack.

Diabetes increases the risk of developing CAD in part because high levels of glucose (blood sugar) cause blood vessels to thicken and to lose their elasticity. People with diabetes tend to have CAD that occurs earlier in life and is more likely to be fatal.

People with diabetes are also at increased risk of many other cardiovascular diseases. These include peripheral arterial disease, cerebrovascular disease, stroke and heart failure. Although the majority of people with diabetes die of cardiovascular causes, many are unaware of the risks.

Diabetic patients can reduce their risk of heart conditions by controlling cholesterol, blood pressure and glucose through methods including exercise, quitting smoking, diet and medications prescribed by their doctor.