FEBRUARY 11, 2015;
If you have diabetes, it’s important to manage your diabetes ABCs. Many people don’t know that having diabetes increases the chances of having heart problems, such as a heart attack or stroke. The National Diabetes Education Program wants you to understand that taking care of your diabetes can also help you take care of your heart.
A is the A1C Test: The A1C test is a blood test the measures your average blood sugar level over the past three months.
B is Blood Pressure: Blood pressure is the force of your blood against the wall of your blood vessels.
C is Cholesterol: There are two kinds of cholesterol in your blood: LDL and HDL. LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, can build up and clog your blood vessels. It can cause a heart attack or stroke.
S is for Stopping Smoking: Stop smoking—ask for help or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).
To learn more about the critical link between diabetes and heart disease, please visit YourDiabetesInfo.org/Heart.
