Take Diabetes to Heart

November is American Diabetes Month

One area of focus during this year’s American Diabetes Month spotlights the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Adults with diabetes are nearly twice as likely to die from heart disease or stroke as people without diabetes. This is because over time, high blood glucose from diabetes can damage your blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart.

Unfortunately, 1 in 10 Americans have diabetes. That is more than 30 million people. Another 84 million adults in the United States are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

 

Healthy habits

There is good news though. By taking steps to manage your diabetes, you also can help lower your chances of having heart disease or stroke.

Here are a few healthy habits to help you in this effort:

  • Stop smoking or using tobacco products.
  • Manage your A1C, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  • Develop or maintain healthy lifestyle habits – be more physically active and learn ways to manage stress.
  • Take medicines as prescribed by your doctor.

 

Spread the word

American Diabetes Month provides us an opportunity to raise awareness and help others.

Remember, it’s not difficult to be a part of this cause. What might seem like a small or insignificant act actually might make a big difference.

  • Encourage people to make small changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
  • Talk to people in your community about getting regular checkups. They can get their blood pressure and cholesterol checked. They can ask the doctor about their diabetes risk.
  • Ask doctors and nurses to be leaders in their communities by speaking about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity.

Visit the American Diabetes Association website for more info at www.diabetes.org.