Raising Awareness During National Diabetes Awareness Month

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and the Greater Scranton YMCA is encouraging Lackawanna County residents to understand their risks for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes and steps to take to prevent the disease through programs like the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program.

Following a year of reduced activity due to COVID-19, statistics show prediabetes rates are on the rise. Currently, 88 million American adults (more than 1 in 3) have prediabetes but less than 16 percent know they have the condition. In addition to the high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, people with prediabetes are also at risk of developing other chronic diseases such as heart disease and stroke. Without weight loss and moderate physical activity, 15 to 30 percent of people with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within five years.

During National Diabetes Awareness Month, we encourage all community members to take control of their health and learn their risk for type 2 diabetes by visiting ymca.org/diabetes and take steps to prevent developing the disease.

A new study from the University of Michigan revealed that over one third of Americans put off healthcare during the pandemic,” said Trish Fisher, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “This makes it more imperative than ever for community members to be aware of the health risks of prediabetes. The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program provides a safe and supportive environment where people can learn to change behaviors and potentially decrease chances of developing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.”

To learn more about our Diabetes Prevention Program contact Brandon Whipple, Wellness Director, at [email protected] or (570) 828-3116, or visit the Greater Scranton YMCA online at www.greaterscrantonymca.org.