Rye YMCA Urges Public To Know How To Prevent Diabetes

RYE, NY — In recognition of March 28 being American Diabetes Association (ADA) Alert Day — with millions of Americans at risk for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes — the Rye YMCA is urging everyone to take action to prevent the disease.

One way to take action is to participate in the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program.

Diabetes affects nearly 29 million people nation-wide. An estimated 86 million additional Americans have pre-diabetes, yet only about 10 percent are aware of it, according to a spokesperson.

Pre-diabetes is a condition in which individuals have blood glucose (sugar) levels that are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. People with pre-diabetes are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, over 59,000 Westchester County residents have been diagnosed with diabetes. In addition to the health impact, diabetes puts an incredible strain on our health care system, costing billions of dollars a year to treat and manage.

Understanding your risk is the first step in preventing diabetes. Several factors, including family history, age, weight and physical activity level, can contribute to developing type 2 diabetes. Learn your risk for type 2 diabetes by taking the diabetes risk test at ymca.net/diabetes.

“Studies show that people with pre-diabetes can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by making simple lifestyle changes that include eating healthier and increasing physical activity,” noted Tanya Stack, the Rye Y’s Director of Membership, Health, and Wellness. “The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program can provide the support needed to make those changes.”

From the press release:

Facilitated by a trained Lifestyle Coach, the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is an evidence-based, year-long program where participants work together in a small group to learn about behavior changes that can improve overall health. The goal is to help adults at risk for diabetes reduce their body weight by 5 to 7 percent and increase their physical activity to 150 minutes per week. Studies have shown that programs like the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program can prevent or delay new cases of type 2 diabetes in adults by 58 percent and by as much as 71 percent in those over age 60.

Since July 2011, 170 adults have enrolled in the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program through the Rye YMCA. Working in partnership with Open Door Family Medical Centers and Hudson River Healthcare, the Rye Y is able to offer classes in Spanish and English at locations in Rye, Port Chester, Ossining, Peekskill, and Yonkers.

Fernanda Carillo, 58, is currently participating in the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program and shares her story:

“I went to my routine doctor appointment, and unfortunately, I found out that I have prediabetes. As soon I listened to the word prediabetes, I thought of my two brothers that died of diabetes, and my cousin that is on dialysis because of diabetes. My doctor recommended the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention program. I knew that the program was going to be the opportunity to change my lifestyle if I don’t want to have the same the issues that my family went through. I thought I could do it; I can make a difference in my life. As my coach always reminded us, we are not on a diet; we are making life long changes for our health. I have lost over 20 pounds. Seeing my results keeps me motivated, and I'm eager to continue losing weight… the most important thing that I learned in the program is portion control and don’t skip meals. What makes me happier is to see my family and friends incorporating my lifestyle changes into their lives. I am so thankful for the program. It has changed my life. Now I am an active, healthy person. I hope that more people get the same opportunity and give the program a try.”

To learn more about the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program or enroll in an upcoming class at the Rye Y, contact Tanya Stack at tanya@ryeymca.org or 967-6363, ext. 107.

The Rye YMCA is a family-oriented community service organization which welcomes all people and promotes positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body.

Photo credit: Submitted.