Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Echocardiographic Study on Prevalence and Clinical Correlates

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence and severity of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using echocardiographic evaluation and to examine its association with glycemic control, age, and diabetes duration. Given that LVDD is an early marker of diabetic cardiomyopathy, its timely detection is crucial in preventing progression to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Methodology: A retrospective observational study was conducted at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from June 2023 to June 2024. A total of 150 T2DM patients aged 30–75 years were analyzed. LVDD severity was classified into three grades based on echocardiographic assessment following ASE/EACVI guidelines. The study evaluated associations between LVDD severity and HbA1c levels, patient age, and diabetes duration. Results: LVDD was prevalent in a significant proportion of T2DM patients, with 56.7% presenting with Grade 1 LVDD, 30% with Grade 2, and 13.3% with Grade 3. Mean HbA1c levels were 9.31% in Grade 1, 8.89% in Grade 2, and 8.62% in Grade 3, showing a statistically significant association with LVDD severity (p < 0.05). The mean age of patients was 53.8 years for Grade 1, 55.5 years for Grade 2, and 58.2 years for Grade 3. The duration of diabetes correlated with LVDD severity, with Grade 3 patients having a mean diabetes duration of 11.1 years. Conclusion: This study underscores a strong association between LVDD severity and glycemic control, age, and diabetes duration in T2DM patients. Routine echocardiographic screening and stringent glycemic management are essential for early detection and prevention of LVDD progression, ultimately reducing the risk of heart failure.