Helping Those with Diabetes
Every year in November, our community comes together to ring the alarm on the diabetes epidemic. For the millions who are at risk, it’s a time to get educated, find resources and make sure all those around us are aware of their risk too. The Southern Nevada Health District wants to help our community understand what can be done to prevent type 2 diabetes and help those with diabetes to manage their disease.
What is prediabetes?
Prediabetes is a condition where a person’s blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as having diabetes. If people with prediabetes ignore their condition, their risk for developing type 2 diabetes increases in as early as 5 years. There are no clear symptoms of prediabetes so you may have it and not know it. But before people develop type 2 diabetes, they almost always have prediabetes—a chance to reduce their risk for being diagnosed with diabetes.
How can you find out if you have prediabetes?
- Take the online prediabetes risk test on your computer or mobile device, visit: https://doihaveprediabetes.org
- If you’re concerned you might have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, you should set up an appointment with your doctor right away. If those levels are too high, but not yet high enough to be type 2 diabetes, it means you may have prediabetes.
- If you don’t have a doctor, you can find a list of free and low-cost clinics on our website or email us to send you the list, email: gethealthy@snhd.org
Especially now with the coronavirus pandemic, it is even more important for people with diabetes to manage their disease. The CDC says that people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and other conditions, may be at increased risk for more severe illness. We have included some answers to some common questions related to Diabetes and local resources.
What extra precautions in addition to (wearing a mask, using hand sanitizer, social distancing) should someone take to manage their diabetes during the coronavirus pandemic?
- Don’t skip medical appointments/many doctors are providing virtual appointments.
- Get a flu shot.
- Manage your blood glucose or blood sugar.
- Take a class
What resources are available for people to participate virtually or in person?
The Southern Nevada Health District offers diabetes prevention and management programs at no cost in English and Spanish. Visit our website: GetHealthyClarkCounty.org and sign up on our waiting list to attend future diabetes self-management workshops or the online Diabetes prevention Program.
Healthy recipes may be found at: www.diabetesfoodhub.org. Other helpful diabetes resources are included in the statewide Diabetes Resource Directory, and programs are listed on the diabetes program flyer.
Making healthy choices and taking steps to manage your diabetes can ensure you don’t just live but thrive with diabetes. But it’s important to take steps now-your health can’t wait. We need time to take action together, as a community. The Southern Nevada Health District believes that together, we can conquer this disease. Together, we stand greater than diabetes.
