Cardiovascular disease (CVD) — which includes heart attacks, strokes, and circulatory problems — is one of the most common and serious health conditions in the UK.
If you have diabetes (especially Type 2 diabetes), your risk of developing CVD is two to four times higher than someone without diabetes.
But the good news is: with the right steps, most heart problems can be prevented or delayed.
Why Diabetes Affects the Heart
When blood sugar levels stay high over time, it can damage:
- Blood vessels, making them narrower and stiffer
- Nerves, including those that control your heart
- Organs like the kidneys, which are closely linked to heart health
As a result, people with diabetes are more likely to develop:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Fatty build-up in the arteries (atherosclerosis)
All of which increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Key Risk Factors
Whether or not you have diabetes, several lifestyle and medical factors can raise your heart risk:
| Non-modifiable | Modifiable (can be improved) |
|---|---|
| Age over 40 | Smoking |
| Family history of heart disease | High blood sugar |
| Ethnic background (South Asian, African, Caribbean) | High blood pressure |
| — | High cholesterol |
| — | Overweight/obesity |
| — | Physical inactivity |
| — | Unhealthy diet |
The Diabetes–CVD Connection in Numbers
- People with Type 2 diabetes are up to 2× more likely to have heart disease.
- CVD is the leading cause of death in people with diabetes.
- Every 1% reduction in HbA1c (average blood glucose) can reduce CVD risk by up to 20%.
(Source: Diabetes UK / British Heart Foundation)
How to Protect Your Heart If You Have (or Are at Risk of) Diabetes
The same actions that help control diabetes also protect your heart and blood vessels.
1️⃣ Keep blood glucose under control
Work with your GP or diabetes nurse to monitor your HbA1c.
Aim for your target range through diet, activity, and (if prescribed) medication.
2️⃣ Manage blood pressure
Keep it below 140/80 mmHg (or your personalised target).
Even small improvements can reduce your risk of stroke or heart attack.
3️⃣ Lower cholesterol
Statins or lifestyle changes can cut “bad” LDL cholesterol and raise “good” HDL levels.
A heart-healthy diet and regular activity help too.
4️⃣ Eat for your heart and blood sugar
- Choose whole grains, fruit, veg, beans, and nuts
- Limit processed meats, fried foods, and sugary drinks
- Use small portions of healthy fats (olive or rapeseed oil)
5️⃣ Be active
Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week (brisk walking, swimming, dancing).
Add strength training twice a week.
6️⃣ Stop smoking
Smoking damages blood vessels and multiplies your heart risk.
Ask your GP or pharmacist about stop smoking support or apps.
7️⃣ Maintain a healthy weight
Losing even 5–10% of body weight can greatly improve blood sugar and heart function.
8️⃣ Take your medication as prescribed
If you’re on tablets or insulin for diabetes, or on blood pressure or cholesterol medication, consistency matters.
Never stop medicines without medical advice.
Regular Check-ups Matter
If you have diabetes, your care team should check the following at least once a year:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- HbA1c (blood glucose control)
- Kidney function (urine & blood tests)
- Weight and waist size
- Foot check (for circulation and nerve health)
These checks can detect problems early — before they become serious.
Working Together in the Community
In areas like Rochdale, community-led health programmes are helping people take control of both CVD and diabetes risk through:
- Free blood pressure and diabetes checks
- Lifestyle groups for diet and physical activity
- Peer support and culturally tailored health education
By getting involved in local initiatives, you can take small, achievable steps toward long-term health.
Key Takeaway
Having diabetes doesn’t mean you’ll develop heart disease — but it does mean you need to be proactive.
Through healthy habits, regular check-ups, and good communication with your healthcare team, you can live a long, active, and heart-healthy life.