CDC reports that 84 million American
adults—more than 1 out of 3—have prediabetes and almost 90 percent don’t know
they have it
Suffolk
County Executive Steve Bellone and Department of Health Services Commissioner
Dr. James Tomarken invite residents who are at risk for developing type-2
diabetes to participate, free of charge, in the county-administered National
Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). The program supports moderate behavior
changes and has proven to reduce risk in those who are at risk for type 2
diabetes.
“We
seek to reverse in Suffolk County the nationwide trend toward increased rates
of diabetes. This program addresses the behaviors that contribute to diabetes,
a disease that exacts enormous costs to the individual, the family and the
community,” said Executive Bellone.
According
to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prediabetes is a serious
health condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high
enough yet to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Approximately 84 million
American adults—more than 1 out of 3—have prediabetes. Of those with
prediabetes, 90 percent don’t know they have it. Prediabetes puts you at
increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Minority
populations are at especially high risk.
“Though
diabetes puts people at risk for many serious health conditions, the good news
is that moderate changes in lifestyle can result in significant health
benefits,” said Dr. Tomarken.
DPP
is based on a research study led by the National Institutes of Health. The
study showed that with intensive counseling and motivational support,
participants were able to make behavioral changes, reducing their risk for
developing Type 2 Diabetes by 58 percent. Lifestyle changes worked particularly
well for participants aged 60 and older, reducing their risk by 71 percent.
The
Suffolk County Diabetes Prevention Program is led by a trained lifestyle coach.
It meets one hour per week for 16 weeks, then monthly for the remainder of one
year.
Shirley
HRHCare Marilyn Shellabarger Family Health Center
550
Montauk Hwy
Shirley,
NY 11967
Fridays, October
12, 19, 26 November 2, 9, 16, 30; December 7, 14, 21, 28, January 4, 11, 18, 25,
February 1, 2018
Time: 3:00 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.
Contact:
Debora 631-853-2928
For more information visit the Suffolk County Department of Health
Services website at www.suffolkcountyny.gov/health
and click on the hyperlink located under the heading “Healthy Living,” or call
the Office of Health Education at 853-3162.
www.suffolkcountyny.gov
www.Facebook.com/SuffolkCountyHealth
www.Twitter.com/SuffolkCoHealth