National Diabetes Month 2019

November is National Diabetes Month. During this time, communities team up to bring attention to diabetes awareness. This year, t The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) is partnering with The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to focus on the connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Adults with diabetes are twice as likely to die from a stroke or heart disease than those without diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar from diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the heart.

If you or a loved one has diabetes, you can lower your chances of cardiovascular disease by developing healthy habits:

• Quitting smoking and other tobacco products
• Managing your A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
• Starting an exercise program
• Managing stress
• Taking medication prescribed by your doctor

Learn more about National Diabetes Month.