Managing Diabetes: It’s Not Easy, But It’s Worth It

HARTFORD — The Connecticut Department of Public Health has good news about diabetes. People who keep their blood glucose as close to normal as possible in the early years after they are diagnosed with diabetes have fewer problems with their eyes, nerves, and kidneys, and fewer heart attacks later in life.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health has partnered with the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) to get this message out for National Diabetes Awareness Month in November.

“This is important news for people affected by diabetes,” stated DPH Commissioner Dr J. Robert Galvin. “Diabetes is a serious disease. Managing the disease is not easy, but the benefits are worth the effort. People need to work to keep their blood glucose as close to normal as is safe for them, what is called their target range, to reduce their chance of serious health problems.”

Most people, especially those who have just been diagnosed, should aim for an A1C less than seven percent. The A1C is an important test as it represents a three-month average of blood sugars. Everyone’s target range is different, so people with diabetes should talk with their health care team about what blood glucose targets are safe.

Those who have had diabetes for a long time, other health problems, or problems with low blood sugar may have an A1C target higher than seven percent. Also, keeping blood pressure and cholesterol under control can lower risk for heart attacks and other diabetes complications.

Making a plan based on realistic goals can be the first step to managing diabetes. For example, developing a plan focused on better food choices might be to drink water rather than soda or fruit juice, choose fruits or vegetables as a snack, and make an appointment to see a certified diabetes educator. There are 26 diabetes education centers that are recognized by the American Diabetes Association across the state to meet with diabetes educators.

For a listing of centers and for diabetes information go to www.diabetes.org or call 877-639-0385.

In related news, “Laughter and a Positive Attitude Can Improve Blood Glucose Levels” is the topic of a free lecture on Thursday, November 19, from 7 to 9 pm, in the fourth-floor Hollander Auditorium at Bridgeport Hospital. The talk is sponsored by the hospital’s Diabetes Education Center in observance of American Diabetes Month.

The speaker is Ahlbin Rehabilitation Centers Recreational Therapy Supervisor Jim Shea.

The American Diabetes Association estimates that almost 24 million people in the United States have diabetes, a disease that prevents the body from producing or properly using insulin. Insulin is a hormone needed to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy. While approximately 18 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes, nearly six million are unaware that they have the condition.

It is important for all people, but especially those with diabetes, to maintain a normal level of blood glucose (blood sugar). Naturally produced insulin, a hormone needed to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy, helps most people to do this.

However, people with diabetes lack the ability to produce or properly use insulin, which can lead to a range of health complications, including heart disease and vision, nerve or kidney problems. This is why people with diabetes must continually monitor their blood glucose levels and take insulin injections if necessary.

Bridgeport Hospital’s Diabetes Education Program is nationally recognized by the American Diabetes Association. The Diabetes Education Center provides diabetes self-management training and medical nutrition therapy sessions. Bridgeport Hospital also offers a program for the management of gestational diabetes (diabetes of pregnancy).

Parking is free. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call toll free 888-357-2396.