American Heart Association Launches Landmark Health Initiative

The American Heart Association (KnowDiabetesbyHeart.org), in collaboration with the American Diabetes Association (ADA), has launched the Know Diabetes by Heart initiative. Know Diabetes by Heart is designed to educate, empower, and motivate people with type 2 diabetes to make practical, step-by-step changes to improve their health and decrease their risks of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks and strokes. The initiative also leverages the latest evidence-based guidelines to support health care providers regarding the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and includes quality improvement efforts across clinics, practices and hospitals caring for people with type 2 diabetes.

People living with diabetes are two times more likely to develop and die from cardiovascular disease. Yet in a recent survey of people age 45 and older with type 2 diabetes, conducted online by The Harris Poll, only about half recognize their risk or have discussed their risk for heart attacks or strokes with their health care providers.

Individuals living with type 2 diabetes can take advantage of the Living with Type 2 Diabetes Program, a free 12-month program offers six digital, printable “journeys” to improve understanding of how to live well with type 2 diabetes, including reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The program also includes a monthly e-newsletter featuring practical tips, stories and resources, as well as six free issues of Diabetes Forecast®, the ADA’s consumer magazine, and access to the ADA’s online community of local events.

For more information about the American Heart Association’s new initiative, visit KnowDiabetesbyHeart.org or call (402) 810-6870.