Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone joined Department of Health Commissioner James Tomarken, MD, MPH, MBA, MSW, to invite residents who have diabetes to attend a free program that will enable them to manage their diabetes.
The program, conducted by the Department of Health Services in collaboration with Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, comprises four classes that cover suggestions for keeping blood sugar in target range, choosing a healthy meal plan and balancing food, exercise and medications.
“These interactive classes in diabetes self-management education, facilitated by a Registered Nurse and Registered Dietitian who specialize in diabetes education, will arm participants with the knowledge and skills they need to properly manage their diabetes and enable them to enjoy an improved quality of life,” said Bellone.
According to the New York State Department of Health, diabetes is the most rapidly growing chronic disease of our time, affecting one out of every 12 adults in New York. Minority populations are at high risk, especially those who are African American, Latino, Native American and Asian American.
Diabetes puts the body at risk for many serious health conditions, including heart disease, retinopathy (eye problems), kidney disease, poor blood flow, amputations and complications of pregnancy if it is not properly managed.
“The good news is that moderate changes in lifestyle can help you to restore your blood sugar to normal levels, and result in significant health benefits,” said Dr. Tomarken. This course can help those with diabetes to make those small changes and enable them to improve their overall health and well-being.”
