Understanding the Link Between Type 2 Diabetes and CardioVascular Disease

Taking Aim at High Blood Pressure: Little Rivers Joins Target: BP™ Little Rivers Health Care is proud to announce our participation in Target: BP™ a national initiative led by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) dedicated to reducing heart attacks and strokes by improving blood pressure control. Nearly half of adults in the United States have high blood pressure, and many don’t even know it. Left unmanaged, high blood pressure quietly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and more. At Little Rivers, we believe that with the right tools, education, and support, our patients can take control of their heart health — right here in our community. ~47% 130/80mm Hg 11 mmHg of U.S. adults have threshold for Stage 1 hypertension potential reduction high blood pressure with the DASH eating plan What Target: BP™ Means for You Through this partnership, your Little Rivers care team has access to the latest evidence-based resources to better diagnose, treat, and help you manage hypertension. The program is built around the MAP framework — Measure accurately, Act rapidly, and Partner with patients — because we know that the best outcomes happen when we work together. That partnership looks like collaborative goal-setting, clear communication (we’ll always ask you to repeat back instructions in your own words to make sure everything is clear), and a judgment-free space to talk honestly about what’s making blood pressure management hard for you. What You Can Do at Home Managing blood pressure isn’t only about medication. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference: • Get moving: Aim for 90–150 minutes of moderate activity per week — brisk walks count. • Reduce sodium: Less than 1,500 mg per day is the goal. Even cutting 1,000 mg helps. • Eat the DASH way: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy — and less red meat. • Manage your weight: Even a 5% weight loss can lower your blood pressure noticeably. • Take medications as prescribed: Take them as directed and never stop without talking to your provider first. • Monitor at home: Two readings in the morning and evening, for seven days, gives your care team the clearest picture. How to take an accurate home reading Avoid caffeine, smoking, and exercise for 30 minutes beforehand. Sit with your back supported, feet flat, arm at heart level — cuff on bare skin above the elbow. Rest 5 minutes before measuring. Take two or three readings one minute apart, and record them. If you’re on blood pressure medication, measure before you take your dose. How Little Rivers Supports You We’re committed to removing barriers that make managing your health difficult. Here’s what we offer: 1. Blood pressure loaner cuff program: Monitor your blood pressure at home with a loaner device and personalized 7-day log — ask your care team to get started. 2. Appointment preparation guide: Arrive ready to discuss your medications, goals, and any obstacles. No question is too small. 3. The Food Farmacy: Our program connecting patients to fresh, affordable produce and nutrition support right in our community. Eating well is one of the most powerful tools for blood pressure control, and we want to make it accessible to everyone. Learn more at littlerivers.org/the-food-farmacy. 4. Ongoing education: AHA- and AMA-backed fact sheets and resources so you always understand your numbers and your options. Ready to take the next step? Talk to your Little Rivers care team at your next appointment, or visit littlerivers.org/the-food-farmacy to learn more about the Food Farmacy and our heart health programs.