Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly from cardiovascular diseases. Family history of diabetes appears to increase the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), even in non-diabetic subjects. They are insulin resistant and carry a risk of premature atherosclerosis, the extent of which can be estimated by measuring the carotid artery intima media thickness (CIMT). Aim & objectives: To compare the CIMT in offsprings with (FH+) of T2DM and offsprings without (FH-) of T2DM. Subjects in both groups are apparently healthy individuals with no known cardiovascular risk factors. Method: We studied 69 young (18-25 years), adult offsprings with (FH+) of T2DM and 50 control subjects without (FH-) of T2DM (age, sex, BMI and blood pressure matched). A FH+ of T2DM was defined as having one or both parents with type 2 diabetes. All subjects underwent high resolution B-mode ultrasonographic evaluation of common carotid artery intima–media thickness. Plasma glucose and lipid profile were measured after an overnight fast of 10-12 hours. Results: Compared to controls, subjects with FH+ had increased CIMT, (0.46 mm ± 0.01 Vs 0.56 mm ± 0.01, P<0·001). Metabolic parameters were within normal limits and there was no statistical difference among both groups. Pearson’s correlation established a significant and stronger association between CIMT and metabolic variables (fasting blood glucose, triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol) only among FH+ subjects. Conclusion: These results suggest that a genetic predisposition to T2DM may accelerate the development of atherosclerosis and increase the risk for CHD.

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