Northwest Health announced it is opening registration for its Diabetes Prevention Program. The program was developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has partnered with organizations like Northwest Health with the goal of preventing type 2 diabetes.
This yearlong program, which will be held at Northwest Health – La Porte, will begin in April. The organization hopes to attract individuals who are at risk for type 2 diabetes and have not yet been successful making recommended lifestyle changes. The program includes lifestyle coaching and ongoing classes to teach participants research-based skills needed to lose weight, become more physically active and manage stress as part of their daily life. The program is part of the evidence-based National Diabetes Prevention Program led by the CDC and supported by the American Medical Association.
The general public can refer themselves to the program. A risk assessment will be required before starting the program. Interested individuals can take the risk assessment here to find out if they qualify for the program: www.cdc.gov/diabetes/takethetest.
A National Institutes of Health trial, demonstrated that participants in this program who were under age 60 reduced their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent, and participants over 60 reduced their risk by 21 percent. The success of the program can be attributed to innovative means of applying the latest research in diabetes prevention while also providing a meaningful team environment and support network with others who are going through the same program.
Northwest Health’s program is being offered at no charge to participants thanks to a generous grant from the Healthcare Foundation of La Porte. To learn more or sign up for an informational session call a diabetes educator at 219-325-7632 by April 2.
