People are invited to take the first step in preventing type 2 diabetes with the Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle change intervention offered by The Health Initiative.

Guided by a trained lifestyle coach, groups of participants can learn the skills they need to make lasting changes, such as losing a modest amount of weight, being more physically active, and managing stress.

People with prediabetes — higher-than-normal blood glucose (sugar) levels — are five to 15 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those with normal blood glucose levels. In fact, many people with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within three years if they do not take steps to prevent it.

One in three American adults has prediabetes, so the need for prevention has never been greater. The Diabetes Prevention Program offers a proven approach to preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes through modest lifestyle changes made with the support of a coach and one’s peers.

Participants can learn how to eat healthy, add physical activity to their routines, manage stress, stay motivated, and solve problems that can get in the way of healthy changes.

Diabetes Prevention Program groups meet once a week for 16 weeks, then once a month for six to eight months to maintain healthy changes. The program’s group setting provides a supportive environment with people who are facing similar challenges and trying to make the same changes. Together participants celebrate their successes and find ways to overcome obstacles.

The Health Initiative implements the Diabetes Prevention Program across St. Lawrence County as part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

People are more likely to have prediabetes and type 2 diabetes if they:

• are 45 years of age or older

• are overweight

• have a family history of type 2 diabetes

• are physically active fewer than three times per week

• have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy or gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.

To learn more or to enroll, call Program Coordinator Linda Caamaño at the Health Initiative, 315-261-4760, ext. 230, or visit gethealthyslc.org