National Diabetes Awareness Month

November was National Diabetes Awareness Month. More than 29 million Americans are living with diabetes, and 86 million are living with prediabetes, a serious health condition that increases a person’s risk of type 2 diabetes. Without lifestyle change, 15-30 percent of people with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within five years. Risk factors include being overweight, family history of diabetes, and getting little or no physical activity. Age, race and ethnicity also play a role.

Prevent Diabetes KC

LiveWell Johnson County recently partnered with the Community Health Council of Wyandotte County to launch www.preventdiabeteskc.com, a one-stop shop for the area’s Diabetes Prevention Programs (DPP). DPP is a year-long lifestyle change program designed to prevent type 2 diabetes in prediabetic adults. Groups of 8-14 go through the CDC-approved curriculum and focus on nutrition, physical activity, stress management and problem solving. A trained lifestyle coach facilitates the course.

www.preventdiabeteskc.com is the result of a year-long effort by LiveWell and their partners to build up DPP programs. Users will find programs at churches, libraries and grocery stores around town, each with unique offerings that appeal to individual needs. Diversifying program delivery will ensure that all county residents can find a program that works for them.

Are You at Risk?

Knowing your risk factors for diabetes is the first step in prevention. About 90 percent of people with prediabetes don’t know they have it. Find out what your risk factors are: click on www.preventdiabeteskc.com and take the two minute risk assessment. If you’re risk is high, talk to your medical provider and check out the list of Diabetes Prevention Programs to find a class that works for you!

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