Editorial - Vascular Complications in Diabetes

ABSTRACT

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease characterized by impaired fasting and post-prandial glucose tolerance, which is associated with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia among other secondary metabolic changes [1]. Despite the increasing knowledge on this complex disease, its incidence and prevalence rates continue to increase all over the world [2]. This has been attributed to the rising number of people adopting the western life-style. Indeed, excessive energy intake and low physical activity, accompanied by a long-term, continuous and psychological stress that characterizes the society of the XXI century, are considered causative factors. In addition, low quality food and disruption of circadian rhythms, such as shift work and other sleeping time disturbances, further contribute to the increase in diabetes and other clustered metabolic disorders [3].