HOW TO CUT YOUR RISK

Dr Naresh Kanumilli, a GP who specialises in diabetes, shares his tips on how to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease

■ Try 30 minutes of exercise, five times a week to raise your heart rate. Walking fast or even gardening counts.

■ Cut down on fatty, sugary and salty foods. Try to have at least two portions of oily fish a week, such as salmon or mackerel.

■ Get support from your GP practice/smoking cessation service to help you stop smoking.

■ Attend your appointments with your diabetes team and know your targets for blood pressure, cholesterol and HBa1c.

■ Understand your medication and take as prescribed.

■ If you drink, cut down on alcohol. Stick to less than 14 units a week and have at least 2-3 alcohol-free days in a week.