Private MD News

Experts recommend cholesterol testing for type 2 diabetics

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

Individuals who have type 2 diabetes are significantly more likely to experience heart complications. For this reason, healthcare officials recommend that anyone with the condition seek cholesterol testing to determine their risk of experiencing a heart attack or other complications.

Dr Michael Cobble, a Utah-based cardiovascular physician, said that it is important for individuals who have diabetes to closely monitor their heart condition through cholesterol testing, as it may alert their doctor to developing complications that can be common in individuals with the disease.

"We know that aggressive management of multiple cardiovascular disease risks in diabetes mellitus patients has proven beneficial," Cobble said. "But in order to properly treat these patients, we first must identify them and effectively assess their risk. This is achieved through advanced lipid profiles."

He added that diabetics should seek cholesterol testing that gives them a complete picture of cardiovascular health by taking into consideration HDL, LDL and triglycerides.

More than 24 million Americans have type 2 diabetes. Many of these individuals also have other conditions, such as obesity, which increase their risk for heart health problems.