Diabetes is a common disease in which your blood glucose (or "blood sugar") is not properly controlled. Over time, high blood glucose can cause serious damage to your body. By keeping your blood glucose controlled you can reduce your risk of long-term health complications.

To keep blood glucose within the desired range (4 to 7 mmol/L before meals and 5 to 9 mmol/L, 1 to 2 hours after). Monitoring your blood glucose levels regularly will tell you whether you are in the right range to stay healthy, or whether you need to modify your diet, exercise or medication.

To prevent the complications that can result from poor blood glucose control including hypertension, heart disease, kidney failure, amputation and blindness.

To maintain the best possible quality of life with diabetes.

Poorly-controlled diabetes increases your risk for a variety of other health problems. Keeping your blood glucose under control will help to reduce your risk of:

HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE). Many people with diabetes also suffer from hyper-tension, which raises the risk of diabetic complications still further If you have diabetes you should keep your blood pressure at no higher her than 130/80 mmHg and have it tested regularly.

HEART DISEASE AND STROKE Diabetes, hyper-tension and high cholesterol all increase your risk of heart disease and stroke, especially if they are not controlled. If you have any of these problems, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking will help reduce your risk of further problems. It's also essential to take your medication regularly as prescribed.

KIDNEY FAILURE. Your doctor should screen your urine for a substance called albumin at least once a year. Detecting damage early is essential to preventing early kidney failure.

FOOT PROBLEMS. Poor blood glucose control and inadequate foot care can lead to foot ulcers and even amputation. Be sure to have your feet examined regularly and follow a proper food care regimen.

BLINDNESS. Diabetes accounts for up to 12% of new cases of blindness in North America, but proper blood glucose control and medical care can help prevent eye disease. Have your eyes tested regularly, and call your doctor if there are any changes in your vision.

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