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Triple threat: Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol

It's a fact: People with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have high blood pressure and high cholesterol too. These can lead to life-threatening emergencies like a stroke or a heart attack. So what can you do to protect yourself? Start by asking your doctor these four questions.

Diabetes and your heart: 4 questions to ask your doctor

1. What lifestyle changes do I need to make?

2. Are there medications that can help protect my heart?

3. How often should I have my blood pressure and cholesterol tested?

4. What other resources are available to help me?

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Reviewed 7/2/2025

Sources

American College of Cardiology. "Diabetes and Your Heart." https://www.cardiosmart.org/topics/diabetes-and-your-heart/questions-to-ask-your-doctor.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. "Diabetes, Heart Disease and Stroke." https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/heart-disease-stroke.