Know Your Risk: November is National Diabetes Awareness Month
During National Diabetes Awareness Month, the YMCA of Snohomish County is encouraging everyone 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 (84 million people) has prediabetes. 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.
“Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes are preventable conditions, but many people don’t know they are at risk, let alone the steps to take to avoid the disease,” said Lynnette Monpas, Healthy Living Director, YMCA of Snohomish County. “Fortunately, the Y is here to help, as developing type 2 diabetes not only puts a tremendous strain on our health care system but impacts the lives of millions of people and their families each year.”
Individuals can assess their risk for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes by taking a simple test at YMCA.net/diabetes. 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.
If you are at risk for type 2 diabetes, the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program provides a supportive environment where you can work with others in a small group setting to learn how to adopt healthy habits to reduce your chances of developing the disease.
You will learn strategies for eating healthier, increasing your physical activity and making other changes that will improve your overall health and well-being. National Institutes of Health research has proven that programs like the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program can reduce the number of cases of type 2 diabetes by almost 60%.
This program has a rolling open enrollment process. As soon as there are enough people for a class, one will be held. Classes are offered at all six YMCA of Snohomish County family branches.
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.
To learn more about the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, please contact Lynnette Monpas, Healthy Living Director at 425 374 5777 or healthyliving@ymca-snoco.org.