Diabetes happens when the body is unable to use insulin (a hormone), which helps the body break down glucose (molecules in food) so it can be used as energy. When the body is unable to use insulin, glucose accumulates in the blood and over time can cause serious health problems like eye damage and nerve damage in your feet.
What you should do if you have diabetes
- Learn more about diabetes management.
- Enroll in a diabetes education or self-management program, offered through the Community Health Network.
- Ask your healthcare provider to refer you to a Certified Diabetes Outpatient Educator through the Community Health Network (referral form)
What you should do to prevent diabetes
People who develop Type 2 diabetes often have prediabetes first. This is a stage when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to indicate diabetes. It is still possible to prevent diabetes from developing if you have prediabetes!
To help prevent diabetes:
- Know your risk score by taking a Risk Assessment quiz.
- Enroll in the Ready for Health Program, offered through the Community Health Network.
- Increase your physical activity.
- Follow a well-balanced diet.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- If you smoke or use tobacco, get help to quit.
What we do to help
- Connect people to evidence-based chronic disease self-management and prevention programs.
- Help with some chronic disease care for women aged 30-64 with gaps in their insurance through the The WISEWOMAN program.
