Checklist for Best Diabetes Care

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> Checklist for Best Diabetes Care

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> New survey: Most people are missing out on essential early detection

> tests

> by Teri Walsh

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> When researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

> (CDC) in Atlanta analyzed survey data from about 15,000 people with

> diabetes, they found a surprising health care gap: Fewer than 45% checked

> their blood sugar levels daily, fewer than 60% got an annual eye exam or

> foot exam, and fewer than 25% had an annual glycosylated hemoglobin

> measurement, which helps determine whether blood sugar is under control

> (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Oct 27, 2000).

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> " People with diabetes have an increased risk for heart disease as well as

> other complications that affect the eyes, kidneys, and feet, " says lead

> researcher , PhD, epidemiologist with the CDC. The best

> protection? Regular checks can help diabetics live a longer and better

> life, she says.

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> Must-Have Monitoring

> If you have diabetes, get these five checks regularly:

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> *Blood sugar self-monitoring (as directed by your doctor): Daily

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> *Blood test for glycosylated hemoglobin: At least once a year

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> *Foot check for sores or ulcers (performed by your physician): At least

> once a year

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> *Eye screening for retinopathy, a condition that can lead to blindness:

> Once a year

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> *Lipid panel (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides) to check

> heart disease risk: Once a year

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