MOUNT VERNON – Diabetes is the most prevalent illness in the United States affecting more than 26 million people and an estimated 5,500 people in Knox County.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to long-term health complications including heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and blindness. The good news is that if you control your diabetes, you can prevent these complications and lead a more enjoyable life.
To help local diabetics learn more about their illness, the Knox County Health Department is offering a four-session program titled “Controlling Your Diabetes for Life.” The sessions will be held Oct. 30, Nov. 6, 13, and 20 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the health department.
Rebecca Metcalf, a certified nurse practitioner, will lead the classes. She has been a diabetes educator for 15 years.
Topics to be covered during the four sessions include: understanding how diabetes affects your body; how healthy eating, physical activity and managing stress can control your diabetes; problem-solving for dealing with high and low blood sugar levels; and understanding how different medications affect diabetes.
To register for the classes, contact Pam Palm at the health department at 399-8002.
There is a $5 fee to attend all classes.
