You can’t make a list of life’s most legendary duos without hypertension and diabetes. According to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 73 percent of people in the U.S. who have diabetes also have hypertension. Although they’re often found together, the good news is that both are manageable and may even be completely reversible when you take some small steps.

Breaking up a bad combo!

How did diabetes and hypertension become such fast friends? Over time, diabetes can cause inflammation and damage to small blood vessels and kidneys. These changes contribute to high blood pressure. So, let’s get to know these BFFs a little bit better.

Diabetes stops your body from making enough insulin or using it as well as it should, resulting in too much sugar in your bloodstream. Over time, diabetes also sets you up for kidney failure and heart disease. A person is considered diabetic when their A1C level is 6.5% or higher.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, makes your heart work harder to pump blood through your body. Left unchecked, it can cause strokes, as well as kidney and heart disease. High blood pressure is a consistent reading of 140/90 or higher. Start to fight back by scheduling a checkup with your doctor. With a physical exam, your doctor will be able to assess your health and let you know about any tests you should have. This will provide the basis for your plan of action—if you need it.

The one-two punch: Healthy eating and movement!

Making changes to your lifestyle is easier to achieve if you start small. Start with healthy swaps you can make in your food choices and add a 10-minute walk to your activity today. Weight loss is a superhero when fighting this bad combo. Eating healthier food and adding more movement to your day can dramatically affect your health. And remember: Every little change you make counts.

We can help! Check out this wellness workshop on nutrition and diabetes.

Stay active doing what you love!

Many basic activities can be aerobically effective when the intensity and frequency are increased.

We’ve all seen scary movies, where you hold your breath wondering what will jump out from every dark corner. But if you approach going to the doctor with the same fears, it’s time to rethink your feelings. Many people avoid health screenings because they’re afraid of the results. While being nervous is understandable, the truth is: You won’t know until you go. Whether you get peace of mind or a head start on treatment, scheduling a screening with your doctor is potentially lifesaving.

Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Van H. Dunn, recommends the following screenings to help you maintain a healthier, fuller life. Check with your primary care physician to find out which screenings are right for you.

This screening is easier than ever!

The good news is colorectal cancer diagnoses have dropped in the U.S. in the last few decades. This is mainly because more people are getting screened.* There are now several options for screening, which makes it easier for people to do. Another contributing factor could be that there has been a change in attitude toward healthy eating and exercise. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that everyone ages 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer, so make an appointment to be screened. And if you have a family history of cancer, you should check with your doctor to see if you should be tested sooner.

*American Cancer Society