Microalbuminuria and ischemic heart disease in noninsulin-dependent diabetes

Prospective studies showed that hypersecretion of albumin in the urine of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with high morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease and nephropathy. 65 type 2 diabetes from 6 family medicine practices were studied. Microalbuminuria was found in 37% and was significantly more common in men than in women (53% and 23%, respectively; p < 0.02). Uncontrolled blood glucose levels were also more common in men (p < 0.03). Using logistic regression with microalbuminuria as the dependent variable, a significant correlation was found with male gender, fasting blood glucose 155 mg/dl or more, and systolic blood pressure 159 mm Hg or higher. Among those with microalbuminuria, ischemic heart disease was significantly more common in those 65 years or older than in those younger (p = 0.02). This study strengthens the assumption that type 2 diabetics with microalbuminuria might be at greater risk for developing ischemic heart disease. Strict detection and control are recommended.