Long-term glycemic variability and risk of peripheral artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies.
PeerJSep 8, 2026 (epub)
Jie Xia, Qionghui Peng, Lei Chen et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the relationship between long-term glycemic variability (GV) and the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD) across eleven cohort studies. The analysis found that higher GV is associated with an increased risk of PAD, with a risk ratio of 1.42 (95% CI [1.21-1.66], p < 0.001).
Key findings
- Higher glycemic variability is associated with a risk ratio of 1.42 for developing PAD.
- Substantial heterogeneity was noted among the included studies (I² = 91%).
- Shorter follow-up (< 8 years) showed a stronger association with PAD risk (RR: 1.64) compared to longer follow-up.
- The association was consistent across various subgroups, except for follow-up duration.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of glycemic variability on PAD risk is crucial for clinicians managing patients with diabetes, as it may inform monitoring and intervention strategies to reduce cardiovascular complications.