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NKY Health Department, Beat DM2 to offer free diabetes prevention program on Nov. 3


If you have prediabetes, getting type 2 diabetes does not have to be the outcome. In fact, prediabetes can often be reversed.

The Northern Kentucky Health Department is collaborating with Beat DM2 (a health education company) to offer a free diabetes prevention program called “Recipe for Weight Loss” starting Nov. 3. It’s a lifestyle change program designed for people who have prediabetes or are at risk for type 2 diabetes.

“The program’s goal is to help participants make changes so they can be healthier, feel better and prevent diabetes,” said Julie Shapero, NKY Health licensed diabetes educator. “That’s particularly important in Kentucky where one in three people have prediabetes and many don’t know it.”

The program is recognized by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and has been proven to cut the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by half. It’s not a fad diet or exercise class — or even a quick fix. It’s a year-long program focused on long-term changes and lasting results.

“A year might sound like a long commitment, but learning new habits, gaining new skills and building confidence takes time,” added Shapero. Throughout the year, participants learn how small changes can contribute to better health and weight loss. Research has proven weight loss can lower the risk for type 2 diabetes by as much as 58%, and by 71% for people older than 60.

To learn more about the program, residents can attend an informational session on Saturday, Oct. 27, at 10:30 a.m. at the Health Department, 8001 Veterans Memorial Drive, Florence.

Participants will meet the class instructor who will provide more program information.

Individuals who want to join the class will be able to register on-site for the program which will start the following Saturday at the Health Department.

For more information or to register for the informational session, contact Cassandra Lewis at 859-393-1902 or beatDM2@gmail.com. Space is limited.

DIABETES FACTS

▪ Diabetes is common in Kentucky. From 2000 to 2016, the percentage of Kentucky adults diagnosed with diabetes has more than doubled from 6.5 to 13 percent.

▪ Diabetes is associated with complications that threaten both length and quality of life, including heart disease, stroke, blindness, amputation, end-stage kidney disease and death.

NKY Health Department


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