Diabetes is known as one of the world’s ‘silent diseases’ meaning that many people may be walking around at risk and not even know it. The staff at Starke Hospital realizes this and that is why they offer a series of programs to educate people on pre-diabetes warning signs and how to adjust lifestyle habits once a diagnosis is received.
One of the classes offered is a free pre-diabetes class that meets the 3rd Monday of every month. Stacey Kellogg, the regional manager of community relations for Starke Hospital, said there a lot of indicators for people who could be pre-diabetic.
Kellogg said that having elevated blood sugar, being clinically overweight and having high blood pressure are all indications that you’re on your way to full blown diabetes diagnosis.
Fortunately, if you catch these warning signs early enough many of the symptoms can be reversed by implementing necessary dietary and lifestyle changes. The next pre-diabetes class is September 18 from noon to 1 p.m. in the 2nd floor OB Conference Room at Starke Hospital.
Two of the services offered to individuals who are past the pre-diabetes stage are the self-management classes and a support group. The support group is free and open to inflicted individuals as well as family members who want to learn how to help their loved ones with the diabetes. The support group meets next on September 26 from 11 a.m. to noon in the 2nd floor OB Conference Room.
Self-management classes require a physician’s order and pre-registration. With this program, certified diabetes educators and clinical dietitians work closely with your doctor for coordination of care. These classes begin at the start of each month and run for four weeks, meeting from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesdays. To make arrangements, contact Diabetes Program Coordinator, Patty Leonard at 574-772-1183.
