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For Immediate Release
Date: October 28, 2016
Contact: Leslie Piotrowski
(847) 377-8055
Hannah Goering
(847) 377-8099
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In observance of National
Diabetes Awareness Month in November, the Lake County Health Department/Community
Health Center is emphasizing the importance of preventing diabetes through
screening and healthy living. The Health Department is encouraging residents to
take a free prediabetes screening test at: doihaveprediabetes.org as a first step toward determining one’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes, but it should
not replace regular visits with your doctor.
The prediabetes screening
test takes less than one minute to complete. Those whose scores show that they
are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes should talk with their doctor to see
if additional testing is needed.
A person
with prediabetes has a blood sugar level higher than normal, but not high
enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. Catching prediabetes early can help prevent
diabetes, which can cause serious health complications, including heart
disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower-extremity amputations. Diabetes
is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.
Certain risk factors for developing diabetes exist, such as
age, family history, and ethnic background. African Americans,
Hispanic/Latinos, American Indians, Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders are at
higher risk of developing diabetes.
“The
good news is that people can manage their risk for type 2 diabetes. Small steps
make a big difference and can help people live a longer, healthier life,”
said Mark Pfister, the Health Department’s Interim Executive Director.
Steps to prevent or delay diabetes
include:
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Take the prediabetes screening test.
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See your doctor if the test shows
you are at risk. See your doctor regularly.
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Ask your doctor to refer you to a diabetes prevention program, if you are at risk.
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Get to and stay at a healthy weight.
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Stay physically active at least
three times a week. Even walking can
make a difference!
Those without healthcare providers
can make an appointment through the Health Department’s Community Health Center
system by calling: (847) 377-8800.
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