Diabetes Awareness Month
St. John's Lutheran Hospital in Libby urges people with Diabetes to lower risk for heart disease
November 9, 2006
St. John’s Lutheran Hospital
People with diabetes must closely manage their blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels, or face a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease, say three leading health organizations. Research has shown that two out of three people with diabetes die from a heart attack or stroke, making cardiovascular disease the number one killer of people with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) are collaborating during November – American Diabetes Month – to emphasize the critical link between diabetes and related cardiovascular complications.
In particular, tight control of blood glucose can significantly reduce the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke in people with diabetes, according to data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Unfortunately, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that fewer than 50 percent of Americans with diabetes are reaching the level of glucose control recommended by the ADA, which is an A1C level of less than seven percent.
Together, ADA, ACC and NDEP are urging patients to talk with their health care providers about managing the “ABCs of Diabetes.” For most people with diabetes the goals are:
• A1C (measures average blood glucose over the past 2 to 3 months): less than 7 percent. Check at least twice a year.
• Blood pressure: below 130/80. Check at every doctor’s visit.
• Cholesterol (LDL): below 100. Check at least once a year.
The groups offer the following advice to help manage blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol: make wise food choices, engage in daily physical activity and take prescribed medications. People with diabetes should also avoid smoking and consult their health providers about taking aspirin.
People of Lincoln County are fortunate to have an ADA certified Diabetes Education Program with two Certified Diabetes Educators and a Registered Dietitian at SJLH who can help patients make decisions to improve their diabetes control. For information or for an appointment, call Becky Brundin, RD, CDE at 406-293-0175 or Joan Bush, RN, CDE or Nicole Kapan, RD at 406-293-0124.
Related Links:
St. John’s Lutheran Hospital, www.sjlh.com
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