Merck taps 'American Idol' judge Randy Jackson for Taking Diabetes to Heart program

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J. — Drug maker Merck has introduced a new program that's designed to provide resources and information to help patients with Type 2 diabetes commit to living a diabetes-friendly lifestyle.

The Taking Diabetes to Heart program was developed to help Type 2 diabetics understand that their condition can cause other serious health complications, including heart disease, which is a leading cause of death among people with Type 2 diabetes, Merck said. As part of the program, Merck has partnered with Grammy award-winning music producer and "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson to tour the country and educate patients about complications of Type 2 diabetes, as well as early and effective management of the ABCs of diabetes — A1C, or blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol — is a critical part of an effective treatment plan and can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

"Merck is committed to raising awareness of Type 2 diabetes and advancing patients' understanding about how to help better manage the disease," said Mark Timney, president of global human health, U.S. market at Merck. "We're thrilled to team up with Randy Jackson to help shed light on the connection between diabetes and heart disease."

For more information about Merck's program, visit TakingDiabetestoHeart.com.

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