What is Diabetes Alert Day?
The American Diabetes Alert Day is a one-day, “wake-up” call to inform the American public about the seriousness and dangers of diabetes. Observed on the fourth Tuesday of every March, the 21st annual American Diabetes Alert Day is Tuesday, March 24, 2009.
What is the problem?
- 23.6 million children and adults in the U.S. have diabetes
- Nearly one quarter of those people are not aware they have diabetes
- One in five Americans is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone can take the diabetes risk test online: http://www.diabetes.org/food-nutrition-lifestyle/lifestyle-prevention/risk-test.jsp
The Diabetes Risk Test shows users whether they are at low, moderate, or high risk for diabetes. If they are at high risk, they are encouraged to schedule an appointment with their healthcare provider.
People that are overweight, sedentary, and over the age of 45 are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
What are myths and misconceptions about diabetes?
- Diabetes is not a killer disease
- Diabetes cannot be prevented
- I should be able to take diabetes in stride
- High blood sugar means I’ve done something wrong
- Diabetes prevention is too expensive
- Insulin shots hurt a lot
- People with diabetes should eat “sugar fee” foods
- Diabetes only affects rich countries
- There is enough money for the global fight against diabetes
About the Diabetes and Nutrition Center
The New West Physicians Diabetes and Nutrition Center in Golden, Colorado, offers individuals and families a number of ways to learn about diabetes and learn how to manage diabetes through lifestyle choices. Classes are open to anyone, including patients outside of New West Physicians. Call them at 303-716-8039, or ask your doctor.
The center offers the following classes:
- Diabetes Self-Management
- Diabetes and Nutrition (2 session class)
- Insulin Pump Therapy & Continuous Glucose Monitoring
- Carbohydrate Counting
- Cooking and Shopping classes
- Medical Nutrition Therapy
