Lipid Control Targets for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetic dyslipidemia not only increases the risk of cardiovascular disease but also impairs islet function.
Normal cholesterol levels are a prerequisite for maintaining proper function of pancreatic β-cells, whereas elevated cholesterol levels can induce apoptosis of pancreatic β-cells.
Lipid control targets for patients with type 2 diabetes

Total cholesterol (TC): < 4.5 mmol/L
Triglyceride (TG): < 1.7 mmol/L
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C):
    Females: > 1.3 mmol/L
    Males: > 1.0 mmol/L
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C):
    Without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD): < 2.6 mmol/L
    With atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD): < 1.8 mmol/L

Note: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease includes coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease.
Therefore, to maintain good islet function, it is essential for patients with diabetes to control their blood lipids.
Lipid levels in patients with type 2 diabetes are closely associated with pancreatic β-cell function. Studies have found that the higher the triglyceride/HDL‑C ratio, the faster the progression of pancreatic β‑cell dysfunction.
It is recommended that patients with diabetes and dyslipidemia receive lipid-lowering treatment under the guidance of a physician as early as possible, which helps preserve pancreatic β‑cell function.