War survivors may face a range of physical and psychological health problems as a result of their experiences. One such issue is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly among those who have developed diabetes.

This article explores the connection between diabetes, war survivors, and CVD, and offers some insights into how this risk can be mitigated.

The Link Between Diabetes and CVD

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body produces or responds to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

When left untreated, diabetes can cause a number of serious health problems, including nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye problems.

One of the most significant risks associated with diabetes, however, is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

This is because high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood can damage blood vessels and contribute to the buildup of plaque, a fatty substance that can narrow and harden arteries.

CVD is a broad term that encompasses a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels.

These can include coronary artery disease (which can lead to heart attacks), stroke, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease (which affects the blood vessels outside the heart and brain).

The Impact of War on Health

War survivors may face a number of challenges that can affect their overall health and increase their risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and CVD. Some of these challenges might include:.

Exposure to trauma and stress that can contribute to psychological health problems like PTSD
Limited access to medical care and resources
Poor nutrition, including limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables and an increased reliance on processed or packaged food
Physical injuries and disabilities that can make it difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle

The Connection Between Diabetes, War Survivors, and CVD

Research indicates that war survivors who develop diabetes may be at an increased risk of developing CVD.

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that veterans with diabetes had a 58% increased risk of developing CVD compared to veterans without diabetes.

Some possible reasons for this increased risk include:.

Changes in blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to diabetes
The presence of other risk factors for CVD, such as smoking or obesity
Stress and trauma experienced during war, which can contribute to inflammation and other factors that increase CVD risk

Preventing and Managing Diabetes and CVD

While war survivors with diabetes may be at an increased risk of developing CVD, there are steps they can take to manage their condition and reduce their risk. Some of these steps might include:.

Maintaining a healthy diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming
Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products
Managing stress through techniques like meditation or therapy
Taking medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider
Maintaining regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels

Other strategies for reducing CVD risk may include managing other underlying health conditions, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, and getting screened for CVD regularly.

Conclusion

Diabetes and cardiovascular disease are serious health issues that can affect war survivors who have been exposed to trauma and stress during conflict.

While the link between diabetes, war survivors, and CVD is complex, there are steps that individuals can take to manage their condition and reduce their risk. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking regular medical care, war survivors with diabetes can take control of their health and reduce their risk of developing CVD.