Diastolic Dysfunction in Asymptomatic Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Evaluated by Echocardiography: A Cross-Sectional Study of 50 Patients

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and evidence suggests that diabetic cardiomyopathy may initially manifest as diastolic dysfunction before any overt systolic abnormalities. This study was undertaken to evaluate left ventricular diastolic function in asymptomatic T2DM patients using echocardiographic parameters. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 50 asymptomatic, normotensive T2DM patients aged 30–70 years. Echocardiographic parameters including E/A ratio, isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT), and deceleration time (DT) were assessed. Patients with known cardiovascular diseases or other systemic conditions affecting cardiac function were excluded. Results: Among 50 patients, 26 (52%) demonstrated diastolic dysfunction. Diastolic dysfunction was more prevalent in males (59.2%) compared to females (43.4%). Significant correlations were observed between diastolic dysfunction and increasing age, BMI, HbA1c levels, and duration of diabetes (p < 0.05). E/A ratio <1, IVRT >100 ms, and DT >200 ms were sensitive indicators of early diastolic dysfunction. Conclusion: Diastolic dysfunction is prevalent in asymptomatic T2DM patients and may precede systolic abnormalities. Echocardiographic screening is essential in early stages of diabetes to prevent long-term cardiovascular complications.