What Can American Indians and Alaska Natives do to Prevent Heart Disease or Stroke and Other Diabetes Complications?
• Diabetes is a self-managed disease. People with diabetes must take responsibility for their day-to-day care. • The chances of having diabetes complications can be reduced or delayed significantly by keeping blood glucose (blood sugar), blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in the target range. The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) recommends the following targets for reducing risk of heart disease and stroke for people with diabetes: • A1C (Blood Glucose): Less than 7 percent (check at least twice a year) • Blood Pressure: Less than 130/80 mmHg (check every doctor’s visit) • Cholesterol (LDL): Less than 100 mg/dl (check once a year) • People with diabetes can manage their disease by eating healthy foods, being physically active, taking diabetes medicine as prescribed, and testing blood glucose levels. • Community education and support programs can help people with diabetes and their families to manage their diabetes.
