November Is Diabetes Awareness Month

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), about 38 million Americans are affected by diabetes, including both adults and children. This November, Diabetes Awareness Month is a reminder that while the disease can be serious, support and resources are available to help you take control of your health.

In Marion County alone,

17% of the adult population lives with diabetes.
10% of the adult population are prediabetic.

In 2021, diabetes was the seventh-leading cause of death in Marion County.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes affects the body’s ability to manage blood sugar. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly use or make enough insulin, causing glucose or blood sugar to build up in the bloodstream instead of fueling the cells. Over time, this can increase the risk of serious health problems like heart disease, kidney damage, nerve issues, and certain cancers, but managing diabetes can help lower these risks.

That is why programs locally offered by the Marion County Diabetes Consortium, such as the Diabetes Empowerment Education Program, are so valuable.

How DEEP Can Help

The Marion County Hospital District (via Active Marion Project (AMP) and Community Home Project (CHP) facilitating DEEP classes) offers a free diabetes education curriculum designed to help Marion County residents with prediabetes or diabetes, relatives, and their caregivers gain a better understanding of diabetes self-care.

Classes typically last a total of eight weeks and provide participants with eight unique learning modules.

The goals of the DEEP curriculum include:

Improving and maintaining the quality of life of persons with prediabetes and existing diabetes
Preventing complications and incapacities
Improving eating habits and maintaining adequate nutrition
Increasing physical activity
Developing self-care skills
Improving the relationship between patients and health care providers
Utilizing available resources

Did you know? MCHD partners with AdventHealth to provide free biometric screenings at DEEP classes that include A1C testing, lipid information, and blood pressure screenings.

Diabetes Facts To Remember

Taking charge of your health is the first step to preventing diabetes. Here are some insights from NIDDK to remember:

Diabetes can damage many organs if unmanaged. High blood glucose over time may harm the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and the heart.
Focus on ABCs of diabetes care. The NIDDK outlines three pillars:
- A = A1C test (to assess average blood glucose levels)
- B = Blood pressure management
- C = Cholesterol (lipids) control
Risk factors are cumulative and modifiable. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you are overweight or obese, are age 35 or older, have a family history of diabetes, and are less physically active.
Small steps add up. Lifestyle habits like eating balanced meals, getting regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and avoiding smoking can help prevent or better manage diabetes.
Don’t skip medications or medical guidance. Even when you “feel fine,” staying consistent with medications and working with your healthcare team matters.
Mental health matters. Managing a chronic condition like diabetes can be stressful. It’s important to monitor your emotional well-being, seek support, and adopt healthy stress-coping strategies.
Use your care team and community resources. Your healthcare team may include physicians, dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and social service professionals. They can help coordinate care and guide you to what may be best for you.

These insights underline a big idea: Awareness is only the starting point. To make a difference, knowledge must spur action, and that is where resources like DEEP classes come in.

Upcoming DEEP Classes in Ocklawaha

Take control and advocate for your health. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect with others on a similar health journey, free of charge.

If you’d like to join a DEEP class, save the date: