Diabetes mellitus is a condition associated with cardiac complications, especially atherotrombotic disease. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of reducing cardiovascular burden on this population by adopting prevention strategies. This article revised clinical evidences on cardiovascular risk assessment and prevention actions, taking into consideration major recommendations in the field. Life-style changes with low-carbohydrate diet, weight control, and regular physical activity must be implemented. High-risk patients or with established cardiovascular disease ought to have glycemic levels < 100 mg/dL and A1c < 7%. It is recommended low dose of aspirin and statin for lipid management, targeting LDL < 100 mg/dL, HDL > 50 mg/dL and tryglicerides < 150 mg/dL. Blood pressure control with non-pharmacological and antihypertensive drugs must be instituted, favoring ACE inhibitors as first option, mainly in patients with renal disease, and combined with tiazides for the majority to achieve target blood pressure of < 130/80 mmHg.
Diabetes mellitus; Cardiovascular disease; Primary prevention