Type 2 Diabetes and its Implications in Cerebrovascular Disease

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes represents an independent risk factor for vascular cerebral pathology, with a 2-3 times greater probability of stroke. The number of diabetic patients with stroke increased substantially from 6.2% to 11.3% during 1996-2006. Ischemic stroke, small or large vessels occlusion, is the main subtype of cerebrovascular disease, while a smaller percentage is attributed to cerebral hemorrhage. Hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia, excess free fatty acids, prothrombotic state cause endothelial dysfunction with blood flow disturbance and major cerebral vessels injury. Elevated blood sugar levels are also associated with a poor prognosis during post-stroke phase. From the total number of deaths caused by acute cerebrovascular events, 16% for men and 33% for women are due to diabetes.