The ABCs of diabetes include: • A: A1C — A1C is a blood test that shows the average blood sugar levels over the span of several months. • B: Blood Pressure — For people with diabetes, controlling blood pressure is just as important as controlling blood sugar. High blood pressure increases the risk for heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease, among other serious conditions. • C: Cholesterol — A waxy substance found in the blood, cholesterol plays many important roles in health. However, when in excess quantities, high levels of cholesterol can contribute to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other serious problems.   Lifestyle changes can help to manage the ABCs of diabetes, including: • Make healthy food choices • Be active • Stop smoking • Lose weight • Avoid alcohol