Diabetes and Your Heart: A Pharmacist’s Action Plan to Prevent Heart Attack and Stroke

Quick Takeaways: Protecting Your Ticker

• The Silent Link:High blood sugar slowly damages blood vessels, doubling the risk of heart disease.

• Know Your ABCs:ManagingA1C,Blood pressure, andCholesterol is your best defense.

• Why Statins Matter:Doctors prescribe cholesterol meds (statins) to people with diabeteseven iftheir cholesterol is normal—it’s for protection.

• Stop Smoking:Smoking with diabetes is like adding fuel to a fire. We have cessation aids to help you quit.

• We Check BP for Free:Stop by Broadway Care Pharmacy (1538 Pitkin Ave) for a quick blood pressure check.

Introduction: The Connection You Might Not Feel

When you think of diabetes, you probably think of blood sugar. But as pharmacists in Brownsville, we worry just as much about yourheart.

Residents in our neighborhood (11212) face higher rates of heart disease than other parts of NYC. The scary part? You often can’tfeelheart damage happening until it’s too late. High sugar levels act like slow-moving shards of glass, scratching the inside of your blood vessels. Over time, this damage leads to plaque buildup, heart attacks, and strokes.

The good news: You can stop this process.

The Pharmacist’s "ABC" Action Plan

To keep your heart strong, you don't need a medical degree. You just need to remember your ABCs.

A: A1C (Blood Sugar)

Your A1C tells us your average blood sugar over the last 3 months. High sugar makes your blood sticky and hard to pump. Aim for an A1C of7% or lower(or whatever target your doctor sets).

B: Blood Pressure

High blood pressure forces your heart to work overtime.

• The Goal:Generally below 130/80 mmHg.

• The Fix:If you are prescribed meds like Lisinopril or Losartan, take them! They protect your kidneysandyour heart.

C: Cholesterol

This is where patients get confused. "My cholesterol is normal, so why did my doctor give me a Statin (like Atorvastatin)?"

• The Truth:For people with diabetes, statins aren't just for lowering cholesterol—they stabilize plaque in your arteries so it doesn't break off and cause a heart attack.

Your Secret Weapon: Medication Adherence

We know taking multiple pills is annoying. But missing doses of your blood pressure or cholesterol medication is the fastest way to increase your stroke risk.

• Tip:Ask us aboutBlister Packing. We can bundle your heart and diabetes meds together so you never miss a dose.

Local Heart Health Resources

You don't have to go to Manhattan for top-tier care.

• Check Your Pressure:Come to1538 Pitkin Ave. We can check your blood pressure and explain your numbers.

• Quit Smoking:We stock nicotine patches and gum, and Medicaid often covers them.

Protect your heart today so you can be there for your family tomorrow.Call Broadway Care Pharmacy:(718) 495-1122.