As blood circulates through every major organ, it becomes a key source of information for how well the body is functioning. A routine schedule to screen and test for high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels can help manage, and even prevent, a diagnosis of diabetes. Diabetes Alert Day will be recognized on March 23, 2021, to promote the use of the diabetes risk test and encourage individuals at risk to consult with a provider.

Understanding risk and health status allows individuals to take charge and utilize provider education and community programs, and resources. The South Dakota Department of Health’s Undo the Risk campaign has increased awareness of prediabetes and was awarded a 2020 Gold Telly Award for a local non-profit TV campaign. Kayla Magee, RN, diabetes program coordinator with the South Dakota Department of Health, is proud of the progress the state has made to bring awareness to prediabetes. “In addition to the Undo the Risk campaign, the South Dakota Department of Health launched a virtual Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) option called Live Your Best SD. The online platform combined with digital apps and valuable content delivers an engaging user experience that helps create lasting change.

Prediabetes is diagnosed when the hemoglobin (A1C) rating falls between 5.7 percent and 6.4 percent. For some people with prediabetes, early treatment as well as moderate lifestyle changes can reduce blood sugar levels, effectively preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes.

“The rural nature of the state made travel to participate in an on-site DPP program difficult for many individuals,” Magee added. “This virtual platform extends our reach throughout the state and supports the mitigation practices in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

A referral from a healthcare provider is required for individuals with prediabetes to participate in the National DPP, which provides a full year of added support and guidance to prevent the onset of diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 183,000 North Dakotans and 220,000 South Dakotans living with prediabetes and many more who are undiagnosed.

Taking 60 seconds for a risk test can be the first step to prevent a diabetes diagnosis. Upon reviewing the A1C and considering the impact of Body Mass Index (BMI), a primary care provider can support positive health outcomes by referring the individual to the various evidence-based programs offered across the Dakotas.

In addition to national programs, state-based chronic disease self-management education programs are available for prediabetes, diabetes, pain and more. A full list of offerings for North Dakota can be found at NDC3.org and at Better Choices, Better Health for South Dakota.