Diabetes is a complex disease that can affect your whole body. Some complications of diabetes include: Heart disease and stroke: people with diabetes are up to 4 times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke. High blood pressure: people with diabetes may develop high blood pressure (hypertension) due to changes to their body chemistry. Foot problems: having diabetes increases your risk of foot and leg ulcers and amputations — see a podiatrist regularly. Vision problems: diabetes is the leading cause of preventable blindness in Australia — you can register for eye check reminders at KeepSight Australia. Kidney disease: kidney failure is 3 times more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes can have a big impact on mental health as well — more than 3 in 10 people with diabetes experience depression, anxiety and distress. There are many ways you can reduce your risk of complications. Talk to your doctor or a diabetes educator about how to look after yourself to minimise — or even prevent — diabetes complications.