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Free diabetes prevention program starts Sept. 28 at Massena Memorial Hospital

Posted 9/3/15

MASSENA -- Massena Memorial Hospital and St. Lawrence Health Initiative are partnering to present a 16-week free diabetes prevention program starting Monday, Sept. 28 at 5 p.m. in the Massena …

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Free diabetes prevention program starts Sept. 28 at Massena Memorial Hospital

Posted

MASSENA -- Massena Memorial Hospital and St. Lawrence Health Initiative are partnering to present a 16-week free diabetes prevention program starting Monday, Sept. 28 at 5 p.m. in the Massena Memorial Hospital community education room.

The lifestyle modification program presented by the St. Lawrence Health Initiative and created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is open to adults diagnosed with pre-diabetes or those considered at high risk for pre-diabetes. The workshop meets once a week for an hour to provide information, support, and encouragement as participants make small changes that can make a big difference in long-term health.

The 16-core sessions are focused on the process of adopting lifestyle changes for healthy eating and physical activities. These sessions are designed to help participates develop lifelong skills for healthy living and reinforce step-by-step change. All participants work towards goals of losing 5-7% of their starting body weight, and reaching and maintaining 150 minutes of moderate physical activities each week. The core sessions are followed by 6-8 monthly check ins to help you keep on track and maintain your progress.

The program is a proven way to prevent diabetes in people who have pre-diabetes or are at risk for diabetes, by making small lifestyle changes.

People may be at risk if you: Had a baby weighting more than 9 pounds at birth or had gestational diabetes during a past pregnancy. Have a sibling or parents with diabetes. Are overweight. Get little to no exercise in a typical day. Are 45 years of age or older.

Type 2-diabetes typically occurs because cells become less efficient at using insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance.

Although the pancreas continues to produce insulin, it is not enough to keep blood glucose levels in check. Doctors have for many years advises patients who are worried about diabetes to lose weight and become more physically active.

The lifestyle goals covered in the workshop are recommended as a preventative plan for persons with pre-diabetes. This type of lifestyle intervention has shown 58% reduced risk of developing diabetes among its participants.

To register call 261-4760 x230.