One of the 86 Million Americans with Prediabetes?
As the prediabetes rate continues to rise, few Craven, Jones and Pamlico County residents know they are at risk.
During National Diabetes Awareness Month, TWIN RIVERS YMCA is encouraging residents of Craven, Jones, and Pamlico Counties to learn their risks for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes and to take preventive steps to potentially reduce their chances of developing the disease.
Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that more than one in three Americans (86 million people) have prediabetes, up from 79 million in 2010.
Prediabetes is a condition in which a person’s blood glucose is elevated, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Only 10 percent of those with prediabetes know they have it but with awareness and simple actions, people with prediabetes may prevent the onset of diabetes.
“As one of the leading community-based charities committed to building a community of integrated health across the country, the Y wants residents of Craven, Jones, and Pamlico Counties to understand their risk for prediabetes and steps they can take to prevent developing Type 2 diabetes,” said Kira Parker, Health and Wellness Director. “Rising diabetes rates cost the nation $245 billion annually for a disease that is preventable with simple lifestyle changes like eating better and getting more physical activity.”
Individuals can assess their risk for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes by taking a simple test at trymca.org/YDPP. Through this assessment, visitors can also learn how lifestyle choices and family history help determine the ultimate risk for developing the disease. Several factors that could put a person at risk for type 2 diabetes include race, age, weight and activity level.
If a person is at risk, a diabetes screening conducted by a physician can confirm a diabetes or prediabetes diagnosis.
TWIN RIVERS YMCA is helping to improve health through the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program.
“The Diabetes Prevention Program has been the catalyst I needed to take better care of myself. With the help of the evidence-based resources and handouts, the inspiring program coach, and the other program participants, I have been encouraged and supported in losing weight and in becoming more physically active. Being a part of the program has paid off dramatically for me. Not only have I lost the weight set as my goal at the beginning of the program, but also blood work from my recent annual physical showed that I have lowered my cholesterol, LDL, and serum glucose levels significantly. I am so glad I have been a part of this program. It has made a huge difference in my life.” – YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program Participant
Making some basic lifestyle changes that contribute to weight loss and healthy living can decrease the risk for type 2 diabetes. Among these are:
- Eat fruits and vegetables every day.
- Choose fish, lean meats and poultry without skin.
- Aim for whole grains with every meal.
- Be moderately active, getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week.
- Choose water to drink instead of beverages with added sugar.
- Speak to your doctor about your diabetes risk factors, especially if you have a family history or are overweight.
Registration for our next cohort is available 11/26-1/4. To learn more about the TWIN RIVERS’ YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, please contact Kira Parker at 252-638-8799
About the Y
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 22 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change.
Submitted by: Amy Walsh, Director of Marketing, TWIN RIVERS YMCA