Deschutes County offers free diabetes prevention program
Deschutes County Health Services has announced upcoming dates for the Prevent Diabetes Central Oregon program in Bend, Redmond and La Pine. This year-long lifestyle change program can prevent at-risk adults from developing type 2 diabetes.
Interested community members can attend a one-hour introductory session:
· Bend: Wednesday, Jan. 29, 1 – 2 p.m., Mike Maier Services Building, 1130 NW Harriman Street
· Redmond: Tuesday, Feb. 26, 1 – 2 p.m., Redmond Senior Center, 325 NW Dogwood Avenue
· La Pine: Wednesday. March 6, 4 – 5 p.m., La Pine Community Health Center, 51600 Huntington Road
Who is it for? Adults with prediabetes–a condition marked by higher-than-normal blood glucose (sugar) levels — are 5 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. It is estimated that one in three American adults has prediabetes. People can find out if they may be at risk for diabetes by taking this test or talking to their health care provider.
What is it? Guided by a trained lifestyle coach, participants will learn the skills they need to make lasting changes such as losing a modest amount of weight, being more physically active and managing stress. Groups meet once a week for 16 weeks, then one to two times each month for the remainder of the year. The program provides a supportive environment alongside people who are facing similar challenges and trying to make the same changes. Together, participants celebrate their successes and find ways to overcome obstacles.
Prevent Diabetes Central Oregon is part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Deschutes County Health Services was awarded funding from the Central Oregon Health Council to coordinate the Diabetes Prevention Program in Central Oregon with multiple partners.
To learn more about the program, call Sarah Worthington at (541) 322-7446 or visit www.deschutes.org/preventdiabetes and/or www.cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention.
