Mohawk Valley residents with prediabetes or who are at high risk for type 2 diabetes now have more resources to prevent the condition. Herkimer County HealthNet is offering the National Diabetes Prevention Program. The program helps participants reduce their risk for type 2 diabetes by learning to eat healthier, lose weight, become more physically active, and manage stress.
HCHN is offering this free program at two locations. One program will begin on Tuesday, May 23, and will meet every Tuesday for 16 weeks, from 5pm to 6 pm at the Ilion Free Public Library, 78 West St. Ilion. After the first 16 weeks, the program will meet once monthly for six months to continue to offer support and help participants stick to their new healthy lifestyle. The second program will begin on Thursday, May 25, and will meet every Thursday for 16 weeks, from 6:30pm to 7:30 pm at the Dolgeville- Manheim Public Library, 24 N. Main St. Dolgeville.
Prediabetes is defined as having a blood glucose (sugar) level that is higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. A person with prediabetes is at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes, which can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, and stroke. While many are familiar with type 2 diabetes, fewer are aware of prediabetes, a serious health condition that affects 86 million Americans (more than 1 in 3) and often leads to type 2 diabetes.
“Small changes can prevent diabetes, with this program we are hoping to spark a change because the reality is that the majority of the public is either unaware or does not take prediabetes seriously,” said Elyse Enea Bellows Program Coordinator of Herkimer County HealthNet.
If you are interested in attending the Diabetes Prevention Program, contact Herkimer County HealthNet at 315-867-1552 or eenea@herkimercounty.org.