Health

Shocking Study Reveals Higher Cardiovascular Risk Linked to Low BMI in Diabetic Patients

2025-06-08

Author: Rajesh

Is Low BMI a Silent Killer?

A groundbreaking study has unveiled a startling truth: patients with low Body Mass Index (BMI) who also suffer from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This revelation was presented at the recent 9th Annual Heart in Diabetes Conference in Philadelphia, highlighting an overlooked aspect of patient health.

The Obesity Paradox—What You Need to Know

In a twist that defies common assumptions, researchers emphasize the importance of understanding the so-called "obesity paradox." This paradox suggests that individuals who appear healthy (not exhibiting obesity) may actually be at greater risk for severe health complications, especially cardiovascular problems, than their heavier counterparts. This raises critical questions about how we evaluate and treat patients with low BMI.

Psoriatic Arthritis: More than Just Joint Pain

Psoriatic arthritis, a debilitating inflammatory disease, not only causes joint issues but is also known to significantly elevate cardiovascular risks. It typically affects individuals aged 40 to 50 and is commonly associated with other serious health conditions like osteoporosis and inflammatory bowel disease, making timely diagnosis a complex challenge.

The Alarming Stats on Heart Disease and Diabetes

CVD remains the leading cause of mortality among T2DM patients, complicating their health landscape with conditions like ischemic heart disease and strokes. Shockingly, more than half of patients with T2DM fall victim to these potentially fatal issues, largely driven by insulin resistance, a hallmark of diabetes.

Groundbreaking Research Findings

To investigate the intertwined effects of PsA and T2DM on cardiovascular risk, Dr. Godbless Ajenaghughrure and his research team at TriHealth Good Samaritan Hospital scrutinized data from the TriNetX research network. They created two matched cohorts: one with nearly 10,000 patients without obesity (BMI <30) and another equal-sized group with obesity (BMI 30 and above). Over a five-year follow-up period, their results were nothing short of eye-opening.

Staggering Mortality Rates Uncovered

The study revealed that patients without obesity had a strikingly higher all-cause mortality rate of 9.1%, compared to 5.9% in those with obesity. Furthermore, survival rates were dismal for the low BMI group at just 84.7%, versus 90.2% for their heavier counterparts. The findings also revealed concerning rates of cardiac arrest, heart failure, and strokes, all notably worse in the low BMI cohort.

Rethinking Public Health Strategies

These findings challenge the prevailing wisdom concerning obesity and health risks, calling for a reevaluation of public health messages. Dr. Ajenaghughrure and colleagues stress that the "obesity paradox" deserves urgent exploration to uncover why individuals with low BMI appear to be at heightened danger for obesity-related illnesses.

This pivotal research highlights an urgent need for healthcare providers to rethink risk assessments for cardiovascular health, focusing not just on weight but also on the complex interplay of chronic conditions.