Suffolk County Executive Steve
Bellone joined Department of Health Commissioner James Tomarken, MD, MPH,
MBA, MSW, to invite residents who have diabetes to attend a free program
that will enable them to manage their diabetes. The program, conducted by
the Department of Health Services in collaboration with Cornell University
Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, comprises four classes that cover
suggestions for keeping blood sugar in target range, choosing a healthy meal
plan and balancing food, exercise and medications.
“These
classes will arm participants with the knowledge and skills they need to
properly manage their diabetes and enable them to enjoy an improved quality of
life,” said Bellone.
According
to the New York State Department of Health, diabetes is the most rapidly
growing chronic disease of our time, affecting one out of every 12 adults in
New York. Minority populations are at high risk, especially those who are
African American, Latino, Native American and Asian American.
Diabetes
puts the body at risk for many serious health conditions, including heart
disease, retinopathy (eye problems), kidney disease, poor blood flow, amputations and
complications of pregnancy if it is not properly controlled.
“The good
news is that moderate changes in lifestyle can help you to restore your blood
sugar to normal levels and result in significant health benefits,” said Dr.
Tomarken. This course can help those with diabetes to make those small changes
and enable them to improve their overall health and well-being.”
The four-week series will meet as
follows:
Thursdays,
October 1, 8, 15, and 22 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
St. Joseph the Worker
510 Narragansett Ave. East
Patchogue, NY 11772
Contact: Jane Juran (631) 727-7850
Ext 340 or jsj79@cornell.edu
Register early, as class size is
limited
Additional diabetes
self-management sessions will be offered in coming weeks.
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