Type 2 diabetes (T2D), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and heart disease have many risk factors in common. For example, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and physical inactivity raise your risk of all three conditions.

If you have T2D, your chances of developing CKD and heart disease are higher. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves in your kidneys and heart, which can eventually lead to CKD and heart disease. CKD can also raise your blood pressure, adding to the strain on your heart.

Here are some ways to protect your heart if you have T2D and CKD.