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1 in 3 Adults on the Mid Shore have prediabetes, the condition that often leads to type 2 diabetes. The good news? The CDC National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) can cut a person's risk of developing type 2 diabetes in half. And, it's being offered in the Mid-Shore. Participants have their choice of in-person classes in Easton or Cambridge, or can join the program online anytime, anyplace And, it's offered for Free!
The National DPP Lifestyle Change Program offers an evidence-based approach to treating prediabetes. Participants will learn to take small, manageable steps that add up to lasting lifestyle changes to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Sessions are held about once a week for the first few months, then once a month to keep motivation going strong. With the support of a trained Lifestyle Coach, participants will learn to increase their physical activity, eat healthy, manage stress, and overcome challenges.
The program is being offered at no-cost by Local Health Departments, Eastern Shore Wellness Solutions, and the Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center (AHEC). The Easton Family YMCA also offers the program and has scholarships available for their fee-based program. The Eastern Shore AHEC is serving as the enrollment hub for all programs and is enrolling now for programs starting in February.
"The in-person option makes sense for people who aren't tech savvy, or are looking to meet others with similar lifestyle goals. This small group setting really fosters friendship and trust," said Nicole Morris, Director of the Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition. "The online program is a great option for those with busy schedules including employees. They can access content from their smartphone or computer when it's convienient for them. Plus, it's a win-win for employers who can help their employees be their healthiest, while also saving on future medical and productivity costs related to type 2 diabetes."
"We have the tools to prevent type 2 diabetes", said Megan Wojtko, SVP & Chief Clinical Officer at Choptank Community Health System. "Our providers strongly encourage anyone at risk for type 2 diabetes to take advantage of the available resources, including the National Diabetes Prevention Program."
You’re at risk for prediabetes if you:
Are overweight.
Are 40 years or older.
Have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes.
Are physically active less than 3 times a week.
Have ever had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds.
Are an African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian, or Alaska Native person. Some Pacific Islander and Asian American people are also at higher risk.
A 1-minute risk test is available at midshorehealth.org. People at high risk should talk to their health care provider about treatment options and see if the National Diabetes Prevention Program is a good fit. To learn more or to register for the program, call 410-221-2600 or visit esahec.org
Ready to enroll or want to share the program with others? Complete this brief interest form and the Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center will call or email you within 2-3 business days to get enrolled.
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