Helping raise awareness of diabetes

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Joshua Smoot
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  November is American Diabetes Month. According to American Diabetes Association, their vision is a life free of diabetes and all of its burdens.

Raising awareness of this disease is one of the main efforts behind the mission of the ADA. ADM is an important element in this effort, with programs designed to focus the nation's attention on the issues surrounding diabetes and the many people who are impacted by the disease, according to the ADA.

This month, the Malmstrom Air Force Base clinic will be hosting a diabetes awareness event at the Commissary Nov. 14 from noon to 4:30 p.m. During the event, participants can receive healthy recipes; take a diabetes risk test; speak to a registered dietitian, health educator, psychologist and a registered nurse; and sign up for a drawing to receive prizes.

Diabetes is a problem with the body that causes blood glucose (sugar) levels to rise higher than normal. This is also called hyperglycemia. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes.

Common symptoms of diabetes include urinating often, feeling thirsty, feeling hungry, fatigue, blurry vision, cuts/bruises that slowly heal, weight loss, tingling and pain or numbness in the hands or feet.

Early detection and treatment of diabetes can decrease the risk of developing the complications of diabetes.

"Nutrition is prevention," said Katie Wichman, 341st Medical Operations Squadron health promotion dietitian. "Learn to balance food groups and control portions. Lifestyle changes can be difficult, but individuals can stop by our diabetes awareness booths to learn more about how they can prevent and/or manage."

According to the American Diabetes Associations, nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes. Another 86 million Americans have prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $245 billion.

On Nov. 7 at 7 a.m., the MAFB Fitness Center will be hosting a Turkey Trot 5K run/walk at the base track. Those interested in participating can register at the Fitness Center front desk at 6:30 a.m. A registered nurse and a dietician will be available to answer questions about diabetes awareness. Participants may also take a diabetes risk test on site.

Diabetes displays will also be put up in the MAFB clinic pharmacy lobby.

For more information regarding American Diabetes Month and events being held on base, contact Wicham at 731-2178 or Jane Scoates, 341st MDOS disease manager, at 731-2895.