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Contact: Sarah Bello

CMH will hold another Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) beginning Nov. 13, 2024, for people who are at risk for the disease. The lifestyle-change program will be offered in person and run weekly on Wednesday evenings from 5 to 6 p.m.

CMH's program is nationally recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and based on research. It is focused on healthy eating and physical activity. A previous attendee says this about the program:

"I highly recommend this program for anyone concerned about pre-diabetes or metabolic syndrome. This in-person class is a wonderful blessing for me, resulting in improved eating and exercise habits," she says. "The teachers/coaches and my classmates are understanding and encouraging; the group accountability is incredibly helpful.

"Making changes in 'small bites' and friendly reminders to eat more vegetables (although no foods are off-limits) works for me. I am hopeful that I now have the tools to maintain this improved health for the rest of my life."

People are eligible for the program if they:

• Have been diagnosed with prediabetes based on a blood test completed in the last year;
• Are a woman and have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy;
• Have a BMI of 25 or a BMI of 24 for Asian Americans; or
• Have a positive screening for diabetes based on the CDC Prediabetes Screening Test (can be taken online at: https://bit.ly/3ua9AoC).

The program provides participants with printed resources, curriculum and discussions on small lifestyle improvements like fat/calorie intake and weekly exercise. Registration is required and can be completed by contacting Arna Vanebo Pyle, registered/licensed dietitian, at 503.325.4321, ext. 82807.

Learn more about the program at https://www.columbiamemorial.org/calendar/events/november-2024-diabetes-prevention-program/.