Learn risks for diabetes and prevention

Posted by Press Release on October 27, 2014

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month and the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley and YMCA of the Upper Main Line are encouraging residents to learn their risks for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes and to take preventive steps to potentially reduce their chances of developing the disease.

Currently, one in three Americans —79 million people — has pre-diabetes, a condition in which a person’s blood glucose is elevated, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Only 11 percent of those with pre-diabetes know they have it. With awareness and simple actions, people with pre-diabetes may prevent the onset of diabetes.

Individuals can assess their risk for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes by taking a simple test at http://www.ymcabwv.org/diabetes-prevention/risk or http://www.ymcauml.com/diabetes-prevention-risk/. Through this assessment, visitors can also learn how lifestyle choices and family history help determine the ultimate risk for developing the disease. If a person is at risk, a diabetes screening conducted by a physician can confirm a diabetes or pre-diabetes diagnosis.

“Understanding risk factors is the first step to making the necessary changes needed to live better, healthier lives,” said Denise Day, president and CEO, of the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley in a press release.

The YMCA of the Brandywine Valley is focusing on diabetes awareness and prevention at Wellness Wednesday events on Nov. 12. Informative chats and screenings will be held during the morning and early evening at the Brandywine Y, Coatesville; Jennersville Y, West Grove; Kennett Area Y, Kennett Square; West Chester Area Y, Airport Road; Upper Main Line Y, Berwyn and Lionville Community Y, Exton.

To encourage residents to take the first step to healthier living, the Y will offer a $1 joiner fee day on Friday, Nov. 14, World Diabetes Day, through Sunday, Nov. 16 in support of World Diabetes Day.

To learn more about the Y’s $1 joiner fee days Nov. 14-16, visit www.ymcabwv.org or www.umly.org.