Diabetes is associated with which long-term complications?

• A. Cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, blindness, amputations, and premature mortality
• B. Only improved vision
• C. Decreased risk of kidney disease
• D. No complications

Answer: (A)

Chronic high blood sugar in diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves over time, leading to multiple organ complications. This includes cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, damage to the eyes that can cause vision loss, and nerve damage that increases the risk of ulcers and amputations, all contributing to higher mortality. Because diabetes affects several organ systems across years, the most comprehensive and accurate description of long-term complications is a list that includes cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, blindness, amputations, and premature mortality. The other options contradict what is known about diabetes, as vision isn’t improved, kidney disease isn’t decreased, and complications do occur.