Mercy Tiffin hosts programming during American Diabetes Month |
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Monday, 10 November 2008 13:31 |
TIFFIN—November is American Diabetes Month. Mercy Hospital of Tiffin asks and answers “Why Should You Care About Diabetes?”
According to information from the hospital, diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease, blindness and amputation, yet nearly 25 percent of people who have it don’t even know it. In fact, diabetes is the biggest public health crisis of the 21st century, and it continues to grow to epidemic proportions. Nearly 24 million children and adults in the United States, have diabetes. The death rate for this disease continues to grow, while the death rates due to heart disease, stroke and cancer have declined.
The Diabetes Education department at Mercy Hospital of Tiffin provides educational opportunities to help those battling diabetes live a normal life, including a number of programs on a monthly basis as well as some special programs in recognition of American Diabetes Month.
“We offer our self-management diabetes education class series each month throughout the year,” says registered nurse Janet Dickerson, diabetes education coordinator.
The series begins with a one-on-one assessment with the diabetes education nurse to determine the patient’s needs and then is followed by four sessions.
Class one discusses meal planning with a dietitian. Class two discusses blood sugar testing results and medications. The third class is about exercise, possible complications and a review of goals. In the final class there is a discussion on community services, relaxation techniques and a review.
“We then follow up in three months and again in one year to find out how you are doing,” says Ms. Dickerson.
Another regular program sponsored by Mercy’s Diabetes Education program is a support group that meets once a month. Membership in the support group is free and open to the public. The group focuses on the needs of those who have Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
During November, two special programs are planned. “Dining During the Holidays with Diabetes” is offered Nov. 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. A dietitian and a diabetes educator discuss planning meals and making healthy choices during the holidays. A light meal is included.
The second program, Nov. 19, is a presentation by Christopher Sears, a local internist.
“Diabetes is a very serious problem in our country,” Ms. Dickerson says. “Our goal is to help those of all ages in our community who have Type 1 or Type 2 handle their diabetes in the most effective way possible. With a proper lifestyle, those with diabetes can lead a normal, healthy life.”
For information on Mercy Hospital of Tiffin’s diabetes education programs, call the Diabetes Education program at 419-455-7743.
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Last Updated on Monday, 22 December 2008 11:11 |
