A New Approach to Managing Diabetes

Video: Health Epidemics

In other words, all patients with type 2 diabetes need to aim to reach target goals for their A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, but the emphasis on each may vary. Aggressive A1C management may be appropriate in someone who's newly diagnosed and doesn't have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, says Abrahamson. But an older patient with already existing heart disease may benefit more by focusing on getting his blood pressure and cholesterol under control. And patients of all stripes should take a daily aspirin, not smoke, eat a healthy diet, and exercise. That's something everyone can agree on.