Blessings
Dear Editor: Thanks to all who made Sitkafest such a blessing. To the donors for the giveaways – $1,000 in gift certificates for local merchants, the new bikes, the 42-inch flat screen TV, the toys, food and loan of the popcorn maker. To those who labored tirelessly behind the scenes handing out flyers, publicizing, offering rides, setting up, cleaning up and helping with child care. There is one who sees all and rewards. And most of all, to the Christians from at least seven Sitka churches in attendance who brought the spirit of God with them, and joined us in praise, prayer, and transformation. The fruit is in the hearts of those who have come to know the Lord. God bless you all, and God bless Sitka!
Rev. Diane Wonnenberg, Pastor,
First Presbyterian Church
Take it. Share it.
Dear Editor: On March 26, the American Diabetes Association will be encouraging the public to take the Diabetes Risk Test, as well as to share the test with everyone they care about – friends, family members and colleagues. With each person that takes the test and knows their risk, the Association is that much closer to stopping diabetes.
American Diabetes Association Alert Day, which is held every fourth Tuesday in March, is a one-day, “wake-up call” asking the American public to take the Diabetes Risk Test to find out if they are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
The new Diabetes Risk Test asks users to answer simple questions about weight, age, family history and other potential risks for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Preventative tips are provided for everyone who takes the test, including encouraging those at high risk to talk with their health care provider.
Diabetes by the Numbers
Diabetes is a serious disease that strikes nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States, and a quarter of them – 7 million – do not even know they have it. An additional 79 million, or one in three American adults, have prediabetes, which puts them at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Recent estimates project that as many as one in three American adults will have diabetes in 2050 unless we take the steps to Stop Diabetes.
Are You at Risk?
Everyone should be aware of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes. People who are overweight, underactive (living a sedentary lifestyle) and over the age of 45 should consider themselves at risk for the disease. African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders and people who have a family history of the disease also are at an increased risk for type 2 diabetes.
Unfortunately, diagnosis often comes seven to 10 years after the onset of the disease, after disabling and even deadly complications have had time to develop. Therefore, early diagnosis is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death.
The American Diabetes Association has made a strong commitment to primary prevention of type 2 diabetes by increasing awareness of prediabetes and actively engaging individuals in preventative behaviors like weight loss, physical activity and healthful eating. Alert Day is a singular moment in time in which we can raise awareness and prompt action among the general public – particularly those at risk.
Take Charge of Your Health
Studies have shown that type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed by losing just 7 percent of body weight (such as 15 pounds if you weigh 200) through regular physical activity (30 minutes a day, five days a week) and healthy eating. By understanding your risk, you can take the necessary steps to help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
You can be part of the movement to Stop Diabetes and get your free Diabetes Risk Test (English or Spanish) by visiting www.stopdiabetes.com or by calling 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383). Although Alert Day is a one-day event, the Diabetes Risk Test is available year-round.
Alyssa Sexton RN, MSN,
Sitka Community Hospital
Diabetes Program
