Monitor Risk Factors
People with type 2 diabetes often have high blood pressure and high cholesterol. This increases the chance of a heart attack or stroke. Manage risk by tracking key measures like these:
Select each item for more information.
![artery icon](../media/images/2-3a.png)
High cholesterol leads to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This can reduce blood flow and lead to serious complications.
Opens in a new windowCheck this guide for three ways to make better food choices to help manage your cholesterol. Be sure to talk with a health care professional about cholesterol at your next visit.
![artery icon](../media/images/2-3a.png)
High cholesterol leads to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This can reduce blood flow and lead to serious complications.
Opens in a new windowCheck this guide for three ways to make better food choices to help manage your cholesterol. Be sure to talk with a health care professional about cholesterol at your next visit.
![heart beat in a heart icon](../media/images/2-3b.png)
High blood pressure doesn’t always cause obvious symptoms. The best way to know if you have high blood pressure is to regularly monitor it and/or have it checked routinely. Early detection can help better manage risk and prevent a stroke and kidney disease.
![heart beat in a heart icon](../media/images/2-3b.png)
High blood pressure doesn’t always cause obvious symptoms. The best way to know if you have high blood pressure is to regularly monitor it and/or have it checked routinely. Early detection can help better manage risk and prevent a stroke and kidney disease.
![kidneys icon](../media/images/2-3c.png)
People with type 2 diabetes should take steps to care for their kidneys, which play a major role in the complex cardiovascular system.
Opens in a new windowGetting regular screenings, including a simple urine test called a UACR and a eGFR blood test, are an important part of understanding your numbers and reducing your risk for heart disease. Take these tests at least once a year if you have diabetes.
![kidneys icon](../media/images/2-3c.png)
People with type 2 diabetes should take steps to care for their kidneys, which play a major role in the complex cardiovascular system.
Opens in a new windowGetting regular screenings, including a simple urine test called a UACR and a eGFR blood test, are an important part of understanding your numbers and reducing your risk for heart disease. Take these tests at least once a year if you have diabetes.