Pre-diabetes can be sneaky start to bigger problems

Pre-diabetes affects more than 41 million Americans. Are you one of them?

Many people know about the dangers of diabetes. But, the most insidious part of the disease is that it can sneak into our lives, often going undetected for years, beginning with a condition called pre-diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes often begins with a period of pre-diabetes, when blood-glucose levels start to climb, but is not yet qualified as diabetes. Usually, a person with pre-diabetes is not even aware that they have this tendency, and go right along with eating and exercise habits that will eventually lead to full-blown diabetes.

Fortunately, the tendency toward pre-diabetes can be reversed, by eating better and being physically active. Through these simple steps toward a healthier lifestyle, the onset of Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or avoided altogether.

But, how do we know if we're at risk? Ask your doctor about getting your blood-glucose tested if you are over age 45, overweight, sedentary, have had gestational diabetes, or have a close relative who has been diagnosed with diabetes. A fasting blood sugar between 100 and 125 will confirm the diagnosis of pre-diabetes.

Bonner General Hospital is offering a class for those affected by pre-diabetes. If you or someone you know is at risk or has been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, please join us to learn how to deal with risk factors, and how to avoid the progression to Type 2 diabetes. All participants will receive a free blood-glucose testing meter.

The class will be held on Wednesday, March 28, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. in the Brown House at Bonner General Hospital. Cost for the class is $20 and pre-registration is required.

Information and registration: 255-3671