According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2023, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, with over 75% of deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries, including Vietnam. About 30% of Vietnamese adults suffer from dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which can lead to serious events such as heart attacks and strokes.In this context, statins—cholesterol synthesis inhibitors—have been proven to significantly reduce the risk of hear ...

Core Viewpoint - Diabetes significantly increases the risk of arterial plaque formation due to prolonged high blood sugar levels, which damage blood vessel linings and promote cholesterol deposition [2]. Group 1: Risk Factors and Health Implications - Epidemiological studies indicate that individuals with diabetes have a notably higher risk of developing arterial plaques compared to non-diabetic individuals [2]. - High blood sugar levels lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to vascular damage and the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) in blood vessel walls, resulting in atherosclerosis [2]. - Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases can affect major blood vessels throughout the body, including the heart, brain, and lower limb arteries, posing significant health risks for many diabetes patients [2]. Group 2: Early Warning Signs and Medical Guidance - Individuals with a family history of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases should be vigilant for early symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, and leg pain, and seek medical attention promptly [3]. - Regular medication adherence is crucial for diabetes patients, especially those at risk for cardiovascular diseases, who may benefit from glucose-lowering medications with cardiovascular risk control properties [3]. - Lifestyle modifications, including smoking cessation, alcohol moderation, regular exercise, and weight management, are recommended to prevent disease onset [3]. Group 3: Prevention and Monitoring Strategies - Prevention of plaque formation should focus on dietary management, including caloric control, reduced salt and oil intake, and optimized macronutrient distribution [4]. - Regular health monitoring is essential, including blood tests for glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and lipids, as well as ultrasound examinations to check for arterial plaques [4]. - Urine tests for microalbumin can also be part of the monitoring strategy to assess kidney function and overall health [4].