Preventing diabetes complications requires more than just blood glucose control: it requires blood pressure and blood lipid (cholesterol and triglyceride) control, as well. Here are the goals for blood glucose, blood pressure, and blood lipids set by the American Diabetes Association for nonpregnant adults with diabetes.
A is for…
A1C (a measure of long-term blood glucose control
Goal: below 7% for most adults, and close to 6% for those who can maintain a lower level without severe or frequent hypoglycemia
B is for…
Blood pressure
Goals: below 140/80 mm Hg
C is for…
Cholesterol and triglycerides
Goals:
• Total cholesterol: below 200 mg/dl
• LDL cholesterol: below 100 mg/dl for people without heart disease, and below 70 mg/dl for people with heart disease
• HDL cholesterol: for men, above 40 mg/dl; for women, above 50 mg/dl
• Triglycerides: below 150 mg/dl
