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Spectrum Health Lakeland Preventing Type 2 Diabetes with Proven National Program
Sep 20, 2022

(ST. JOSEPH) – It’s estimated that 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes, and more concerning, most individuals are unaware of it and their probability of developing Type 2 diabetes without making health adjustments. Factors like age, family history, blood pressure, physical activity, and weight are all attributed to an individual’s risks of prediabetes. Spectrum Health Lakeland is helping community members lower their risks by providing education about healthy lifestyle changes through a free diabetes prevention program (DPP).  

“Type 2 diabetes is a condition impacting our community greatly and the effects that come with it are considerable,” said manager, Spectrum Health Lakeland Diabetes and Nutrition Education, Nicole Morrissey, RD, CDCE. “Diabetes, as we know, is linked to so many other health problems including heart attack; stroke; blindness; kidney failure; or loss of toes, feet, or legs. DPP participants can reduce their risk of developing diabetes by 58%.”

As a CDC-recognized diabetes prevention lifestyle change program, participants receive help building healthy new habits that offer long-term results. The year-long program is a group setting which meets once a week for 16 weeks and then once a month for six months. Participants learn how to eat healthy, add physical activity to their routine, manage stress, stay motivated, and solve problems that can get in the way of healthy changes.

“Our hopes are that participants leave this program feeling encouraged and inspired to take control of their health,” said Community Health Program Specialist, Spectrum Health Lakeland Diabetes and Nutrition Education, Traci Kuhn. “Small changes can add up to a big difference; losing 5 to 7 percent of body weight by making modest modifications can considerably reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Our classes provide a supportive environment with people who are facing similar challenges and trying to create healthy, lasting habits.”

Those interested in joining the program can do so by calling 269.556.7171. For more details about the program, visit spectrumhealthlakeland.org/dpp