Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot properly regulate glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. Glucose is the body’s main source of energy, and insulin – a hormone made by the pancreas – helps convert it into energy. In diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce insulin or can’t use it effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels.

For women, diabetes is particularly dangerous.

• It more than triples the risk of heart attack

• It significantly increases the likelihood that a heart attack will be fatal

• In pre-menopausal women, diabetes cancels out the natural protective effects of female hormones – raising the risk of heart disease to similar levels seen in men

People with poorly controlled diabetes are also at risk of developing heart disease earlier in life.

In Australia, one person is diagnosed with diabetes every five minutes – that’s around 280 people every day.

Knowing your blood sugar levels and keeping them in a healthy range is essential. Regular check-ups, healthy eating, staying active, and following your treatment plan can all help reduce your heart risk.