Prevent diabetes health complications

In the U.S., one in 10 people have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes¹. Whether you know someone who has diabetes or you have it yourself, it’s worth a minute to get to know this chronic disease better.

7 ways to take charge of diabetes²

Left untreated, diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. But by taking charge, people with diabetes can live healthy, active lives.

1. Manage A1C
   A1C measures average blood glucose (also called blood sugar) levels. Below 7% is the goal for many people with diabetes.
2. Manage blood pressure
   The blood pressure goal for most people with diabetes is below 140/90.
3. Get annual dilated eye exam
   Help avoid diabetic eye disease by having a comprehensive eye exam with dilation every year.
4. Get annual kidney evaluation
   Monitor kidney health annually with an eGFR to test kidney function and a uACR to assess kidney damage.
5. Regulate cholesterol and triglycerides
   Statin therapy helps regulate LDL cholesterol and triglycerides to help prevent risk of cardiovascular disease.
6. Eat healthy
   Healthy eating helps manage blood sugar. The Diabetes Plate is a good rule of thumb to follow.
7. Stay active
   Physical activity makes your cells more sensitive to insulin so it works better to lower blood sugar

Get personalized help with diabetes management

Our Care Team is here to support your diabetes journey with one-on-one messaging to talk through your biggest questions, tools to track your diabetes management, and plenty of useful resources. Connect with them on the Blue KC Care Management app.

Download the Blue KC Care Management app:

1. Visit Apple Store or Google Play
2. Register with access code KCBLUEWELCOME
3. Click Chat at the bottom of the screen to connect with the Care Team

¹CDC.gov
²American Diabetes Association