Name a long-term complication of uncontrolled diabetes.

Long-term complications of uncontrolled diabetes are significant health risks that arise as a result of prolonged high blood sugar levels. Cardiovascular disease is a well-documented complication associated with diabetes. The condition can lead to damage to blood vessels and nerves that control the heart and blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues.

When blood sugar remains elevated over time, it contributes to the formation of plaques in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, which narrows and hardens the arteries, ultimately impairing blood flow. Furthermore, diabetes can result in other related conditions such as hypertension and dyslipidemia, further elevating the risk of developing cardiovascular complications.

While kidney disease, skin infections, and joint pain are indeed complications of uncontrolled diabetes, cardiovascular disease represents a broader and more severe category of complications that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, making it a critical focus in diabetes management.