Free Health Screenings By Parkview Health, YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program
Posted
Staff Report-
Parkview Health will conduct blood sugar testing and bone density screens at no cost Oct. 3. The event is from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Kosciusko Community YMCA. The bone density screening for osteoporosis requires participants to place a foot in an ultrasound device which measures the bone mineral density of your heel. This pain-free screen provides a score for individuals determining whether they are within the normal, mild bone loss or significant bone loss category. The test is a blood glucose test that measures the amount of sugar in your blood over a three-month period. Higher sugar or glucose levels in one’s bloodstream indicates a risk for type 2 diabetes. Those qualifying for high risk of type two diabetes will be connected with information about the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program. The YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne is offering the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program in Kosciusko County. By participating in the program, participants can reduce their risk for type two diabetes while gaining tools for healthy living. The program helps those at high risk of type two diabetes adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles by eating healthier, increasing physical activity and losing a modest amount of weight in order to reduce their chances of developing the disease. Based on research funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the program reduces the risk of developing type two diabetes by 58 percent, according to provided information. In a classroom setting, a trained lifestyle coach facilitates a small group of participants in learning about healthier eating, physical activity and other behavior changes over the course of 16 one-hour sessions. Topics covered include healthier eating, getting started with physical activity, overcoming stress and staying motivated. After the initial sessions, participants meet monthly for added support to help them maintain their progress.
