Your weight may increase your risk of death more than previously thought. A new study finds that being extremely obese or extremely underweight increases your risk of dying.

Being only slightly overweight eliminated much of that risk, say researchers, but don’t take that as an excuse to add extra [...]]]> Your weight may increase your risk of death more than previously thought. A new study finds that being extremely obese or extremely underweight increases your risk of dying.

Being only slightly overweight eliminated much of that risk, say researchers, but don’t take that as an excuse to add extra pounds.

"Our study only looked at mortality, not at quality of life, and there are many negative health consequences associated with obesity, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes," says Mark Kaplan, coauthor of the study and a professor of community health at Portland State University.

Doctor recommendation: Good health is more than your BMI number.

An important first step is working with your doctor to develop a diabetes action plan. If you don't have one, learn how [...]]]> If you have diabetes, you face a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and other complications such as eye, kidney, and nerve disease. The good news is it’s treatable.

An important first step is working with your doctor to develop a diabetes action plan. If you don't have one, learn how to select a physician.

Here’s what to expect  from the initial screening:

• a screening blood sugar test
• a blood test for A1c (glycohemoglobin)
• blood pressure check
• blood lipid levels (including cholesterol) and lab tests for kidney function
• an eye exam every 1 to 2 years
• a foot exam

Here’s what you’ll need to do down the road:

• Control your blood sugar.
• Eat well.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Measure your blood pressure at home, and take steps to control it.
• Quit smoking.
• Stay active.
• Control your cholesterol level and other lipids (fat) in your blood.
• Check your feet every day. Look for any signs of redness, swelling, sores, cracks, or extreme dryness.
• Wear a medical alert bracelet for emergencies.
• Have a sick-day plan.
• Get a flu shot.
• Travel safely.

But take heart, living well with diabetes is possible with help from your health care specialists and by taking charge.  Learn more about diabetes.

Face it. Nobody wants to think about a heart attack. But the more you know about how to prevent it, the better off you’ll be … both physically and mentally. Find your risk of heart attack. Use our heart risk tool.

You’ll need the following information:

Do you know your numbers for HDL, LDL, and triglycerides? If you do … find out with this chart to see if your cholesterol levels are too high. You can lower your levels of cholesterol and triglycerides by using these methods: