World Diabetes Day
The Diabetes Education Team at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese will mark World Diabetes Day Wednesday, Nov. 14, to celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of the millions of people around the world living with diabetes.
Nov. 14 was chosen because it is the birthday of Dr. Frederick Banting whose research, with Dr. Charles Best, led to the discovery of insulin in 1922, said Barb Voss, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) at St. Joseph’s in Breese. Voss, CDE Connie Gebke and Registered/Licensed Dietitian Louise Joseph make up the hospital’s Diabetes Team.
“We are committed to the early detection, education and treatment of those with diabetes,” Voss said. “We can provide the tools needed for you to make the best decisions.”
Members of the Diabetes Team encourage everyone diagnosed or with suspected high blood sugar to see a physician regularly and make healthy choices.
“The more you know, the better you are able to make good decisions for better health,” Voss said.
The hospital’s diabetes program has received the American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate signifying that it meets national standards.
In addition, the hospital and Diabetes Team are marking November as American Diabetes Month.
Over 23.6 million people in this country—and more every day—are known diabetics and an estimated 5.7 million remain undiagnosed.
“If this trend continues, one out of three Americans born now will develop diabetes,” Voss said.
“Diabetes is truly epidemic and if we are going to reverse this trend, we must start today to make a pledge to our own wellness,” she said.
“Let World Diabetes Day and Diabetes Month inspire you to learn more about diabetes and ways to prevent it: start exercising, eat a healthy and balanced diet and encourage others to do the same, know the risk factors, get tested and be a good example to our younger generation,” Voss said. “As it stands, babies being born now are the first generation that the anticipated life expectancy is less than previous generations.”
To assist with diagnosis, St. Joseph’s in Breese offers spring and fall screenings at five locations.
“These health fairs are an excellent time for people to get their blood sugar tested,” Voss said.
The hospital also offers a Diabetes Support Group that meets the first Monday of alternating months.
“Our group provides an opportunity for those at risk, those who have already been diagnosed and want to know more or anyone who wants to support a family member,” Voss said. Those who are uninsured or cannot afford individual counseling are also invited to learn more about taking control of their diabetes.
“Knowledge is power,” Voss said. “The more you know, the better your chances of avoiding the complications associated with this disease.”
For more information, contact Voss at 526-5743 or bvoss@sjb.hshs.org.