The risks for developing type 2 diabetes are common lifestyle challenges faced by many Americans. Advice on how to lose weight, eat well and stay active is everywhere. While many believe they are on track, one in three is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Of those, nine out of ten are unaware of the risk.
March 27 has been designated as Diabetes Alert!Day in an effort to increase awareness.
Type 2 diabetes doesn’t have to be permanent. It can be prevented or delayed with healthy lifestyle modifications. The first step is for individuals to understand their risk. The American Diabetes Association has developed a simple and anonymous Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test.
Healthcare facilities and organizations across the country are encouraged to use the e-toolkit and infographic about Diabetes in the United States to encourage the use of the risk test and increase awareness.
“Diabetes can be prevented and managed by learning how food choices impact blood glucose levels throughout the day,” shared Denise Kolba, RN, program manager for Great Plains Quality Innovation Network. “Individuals diagnosed with pre-diabetes know they are at risk and can participate in self-management workshops to learn how to prevent the disease.”
Great Plains QIN staff members serve as facilitators and trainers for diabetes self-management workshops across the four-state region. The workshops provide the tools and resources to set goals and create an action plan to manage a healthy lifestyle long-term.
More information on diabetes self-management programs is available on the Great Plains QIN website.