The Fayette County Health Department is joining the American Diabetes Association in conducting free blood glucose tests for the early detection of diabetes as part of the American Diabetes Alert campaign. The Alert, scheduled for the week of March 21, is part of a nationwide public awareness effort to reduce the estimated number of 1,267 people in Fayette County with undiagnosed diabetes.

"Diabetes is a serious disease that affects the way your body uses food," said Cynthia Grant, RN, of the Fayette County Health Dept. "If left untreated, it can slowly destroy the blood vessels and nerves with no warning.

"Approximately 75 percent of people with diabetes have no symptoms. Although there is no cure for diabetes, people can live well if it is diagnosed early and properly treated. Our goal is to spread the word about diabetes risk factors to as many people as possible in our community."

The free screenings will be in the health dept. offices March 25-26, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both days. For information, call 770-461-1178, ext. 416.

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