Diabetes can affect a wide range of organs, such as your eyes, kidneys and heart. If blood sugar is not kept under control, it may increase the risk of heart disease.

“People with diabetes are two to four times more likely than people without diabetes to have heart disease,” said endocrinologist Raymond de la Rosa, M.D. “Those with diabetes tend to be obese and have high cholesterol and blood pressure, which puts them at an increased risk. Another problem is that people with diabetes tend to have
poor blood flow and blood clotting problems.”

• Maintain a healthy diet.
• Exercise—aim for 30 minutes of activity at least three times a week.
• Do not smoke. Smoking doubles the risk of heart disease and stroke for people with diabetes.
• Keep your blood sugar under control. Get a hemoglobin A1C test at least twice a year or more often until your sugar is under control. This test shows the average amount of glucose in your blood during the past two to three months. The recommended A1C goal is less than 6.5 percent, representing an average blood sugar of about
• 130 mg/dL.
• Control high blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Lose weight if you are overweight.

“Ask your doctor if you should take a low-dose aspirin daily to lower your risk for heart disease,” de la Rosa said. “Prescription medicines such as statins, are also available and may reduce your risks for heart-related problems.