November American Diabetes Month
American Diabetes Association
American Diabetes Month is a time to raise awareness of diabetes prevention and control. In the United States, more than 25 million people are living with diabetes and 79 million more are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Over time, if it’s not controlled, type 2 diabetes can cause serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and blindness. You may be at risk for type 2 diabetes if you:
- Are overweight
- Exercise less than 3 times a week
- Are over 45 years old
- Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Are African American, Latino, American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian American or Pacific Islander
- Have a parent, brother, or sister with diabetes
You can do a lot to lower your chances of getting type 2 diabetes by:
- Eating healthy
- Watching your weight
- Being active
- Controlling your blood pressure and cholesterol
Get Involved
Take action to increase awareness about type 2 diabetes.
- Partner with your local gym or YMCA center to host a Diabetes Prevention Party focused on healthy eating habits and exercise. Give away free one-day gym passes, fitness classes, or work-out gear. Ask the fitness staff to host free demonstrations or fitness classes.
- Partner with local churches that have a health ministry. Make a presentation on type 2 diabetes prevention at their next health event.
- Host a cooking demonstration with diabetes-friendly recipes from a local nutritionist. Include healthy Thanksgiving recipes in your next newsletter or company email along with quick tips on how to prevent type 2 diabetes.
- Post tips on type 2 diabetes prevention on your employee bulletin board during the month of November.
- Encourage your members to get active. Invite local gyms to showcase their fitness classes and programs.
Adapted from the American Diabetes Association.
Contact the American Diabetes Association at askada@diabetes.org for more information and materials.
