Wednesday, November 27, 2002

South Fulton Medical Center offers free education, and diagnostic screening during National Diabetes Month

In recognition of National Diabetes Month in November, South Fulton Medical Center has been providing education and diagnostic screening to help combat a disease affecting more than 17 million people in the United States. The program is part of South Fulton Medical Center 's continuing effort to improve health through preventative medicine and education.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) estimates that of these 17 million people, about a third remain undiagnosed. Diabetes is one of the top seven causes of death in the United States, and the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease, new cases of blindness and traumatic amputations.

"Although diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, persons with diabetes can take measures to reduce the likelihood of such occurrences," said Christine Boyd-Bassette, RN, CDE, South Fulton Medical Center's clinical diabetes educator. "The first step is diagnosing diabetics who have the disease and don't know it, and the second step is to educate them about treatments and lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of serious complications. South Fulton Medical Center can help them through this process."

The most common form of diabetes is Type 2. Risk factors include over 40 years of age, over weight, family history of diabetes, prior history of diabetes during pregnancy, giving birth to a baby over 9 pounds, impaired glucose tolerance, physical inactivity and race/ethnicity. African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians and some Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are at particularly high risk for Type 2 diabetes. There is also an alarming trend taking place that more and more youth are developing Type 2 diabetes.

To schedule a diagnostic test, or request additional information about diabetes, please call 404-305-4987. Anyone interested in researching diabetes and related issues can visit the American Diabetes Association website at www.diabetes.org.