HHS HealthBeat (January 27, 2012) Fighting diabetes Listen to Tip Diabetes is all too common, affecting 26 million people in the United States. The older you get the higher your risk is for being diagnosed with diabetes. But doing the right things can help you lower your risk of type 2 diabetes. Nilka Rios Burrows is a researcher at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “Number one, exercise regularly. Two, lose weight. And three, eat a healthy diet.” (5 seconds) Those older than 45 and those with risk factors for type 2 diabetes should be tested every three years. Those with diabetes can take steps, too: "Seeing a doctor regularly. Controlling your blood sugar, your blood pressure and your cholesterol. And getting dilated eye exams, foot exams and flu shots annually. So talk to your doctor about how you can manage and take control of your diabetes" (12 seconds)