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Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Sophie Farley
Abstract
While many providers are well aware of the harmful effects of diabetes on cardiovascular health, there is less acknowledgement of the damage that accumulates during the prediabetic stage. Studies show that patients with prediabetes have a higher plaque burden in the coronary arteries and a greater risk of all-cause mortality than those with normoglycemic levels. It is crucial for providers to recognize the dangers of prediabetes and address it promptly when identified to reduce the risk of cardiovascular damage. Additionally, providers should emphasize to patients that the term "prediabetes" does not exclude them from the well-documented harmful health effects of Type II Diabetes Mellitus. There are multiple ways to manage prediabetes, including both lifestyle modifications and pharmacologic therapies. Therefore, providers must be aware of these options and equipped to make tailored decisions that best meet their patients' needs.
Recommended Citation
Stingel, Daphne, "Addressing Cardiovascular Risk in Prediabetes" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 78.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2025/pa/78
Addressing Cardiovascular Risk in Prediabetes
While many providers are well aware of the harmful effects of diabetes on cardiovascular health, there is less acknowledgement of the damage that accumulates during the prediabetic stage. Studies show that patients with prediabetes have a higher plaque burden in the coronary arteries and a greater risk of all-cause mortality than those with normoglycemic levels. It is crucial for providers to recognize the dangers of prediabetes and address it promptly when identified to reduce the risk of cardiovascular damage. Additionally, providers should emphasize to patients that the term "prediabetes" does not exclude them from the well-documented harmful health effects of Type II Diabetes Mellitus. There are multiple ways to manage prediabetes, including both lifestyle modifications and pharmacologic therapies. Therefore, providers must be aware of these options and equipped to make tailored decisions that best meet their patients' needs.