Why Your Numbers Matter 

Many serious health problems can be prevented or managed by knowing a few important health numbers. These numbers can help you and your healthcare provider find problems early and make a plan to keep you healthy. 

Important numbers to know are: 

• Blood pressure 
• Blood sugar (glucose) 
• Cholesterol 
• Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) 

Checking these numbers regularly can help lower your risk of: 

• Heart disease 
• Stroke 
• Diabetes 
• Kidney disease 

Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home

High blood pressure (also called hypertension) is often called the **"silent killer."** Most people do not feel sick, even when their blood pressure is too high. Over time, high blood pressure can damage your heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. 

How to Check Your Blood Pressure 

• Sit quietly for 5 minutes before checking. 
• Keep both feet flat on the floor. 
• Rest your arm on a table at heart level. 
• Place the cuff on your bare upper arm. 
• Do not smoke, exercise, or drink caffeine for at least 30 minutes before checking. 
• Check your blood pressure at the same time each day if your healthcare provider recommends home monitoring. 
• Write down your results to share with your healthcare provider. 

Healthy Blood Pressure 

For most adults: Normal:  Less than 120/80 mmHg 

Your healthcare provider may recommend a different goal based on your health history. 

Ways to Help Lower Blood Pressure 

• Eat more fruits and vegetables. 
• Choose foods lower in salt (sodium). 
• Be physically active most days of the week. 
• Stay at a healthy weight. 
• Do not smoke or vape. 
• Limit alcohol. 

* Take your medicine exactly as prescribed. 

Diabetes Awareness and Management 

Diabetes happens when your body has trouble using sugar (glucose) for energy. Too much sugar in your blood over time can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. 

Common Signs of Diabetes 

• Feeling very thirsty 
• Urinating often 
• Feeling very tired 
• Blurry vision 
• Slow-healing cuts or sores 
• Feeling hungry more often than usual 

Some people have **no symptoms**, which is why regular screening is important. 

Know Your Blood Sugar 

Your healthcare provider may check: 

• Blood glucose 
• A1C a test that shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months 

For many adults with diabetes, an **A1C goal is less than 7%**, but your provider may recommend a different goal for you. 

Healthy Habits for Managing Diabetes 

• Eat balanced meals. 
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks. 
• Stay active. 
• Check your blood sugar if your provider recommends it. 
• Take medications as directed. 
• Keep regular healthcare appointments. 

Protect Your Heart 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. The good news is that many heart problems can be prevented. 

Know These Heart Health Numbers 

Talk with your healthcare provider about: 

• Blood pressure 
• Cholesterol 
• Blood sugar 
• Weight 
• Waist size 

Healthy Choices for Your Heart 

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. 
• Choose healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and fish. 
• Be active for at least **150 minutes each week** if your healthcare provider says it is safe. 
• Get enough sleep. 
• Manage stress in healthy ways. 
• Do not use tobacco products. 
• Take medicines as prescribed. 

When Should You See Your Healthcare Provider? 

Schedule regular checkups even if you feel healthy. 

Contact your healthcare provider if: 

• Your blood pressure readings stay high. 
• Your blood sugar is higher or lower than your target. 
• You have new symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or vision changes. 
• You have questions about your medications or health goals. 

If you have **chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or severe dizziness, call 911 immediately.** 

Healthy Habits Every Day 

• You can lower your risk for chronic diseases by: 
• Eating healthy foods 
• Being active every day 
• Maintaining a healthy weight 
• Not smoking or vaping 
• Getting enough sleep 
• Managing stress 
• Taking medicines as prescribed 
• Keeping regular healthcare appointments 

Knowing your numbers is one of the easiest ways to take charge of your health. Small changes today can make a big difference for your future. 

References 

American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. (2025). *Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025. Diabetes Care, 48(Suppl. 1). https://doi.org/10.2337/dc25-SINT 

American Heart Association. (2024). Life's Essential 8™ for heart health. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/lifes-essential-8 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). About high blood pressure. https://www.cdc.gov/high-blood-pressure/about/index.html 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Diabetes. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/ 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Heart disease facts. https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/index.html 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Measure your blood pressure.*[https://www.cdc.gov/high-blood-pressure/measure/index.html]