The Diabetes Prevention Program is a nationally recognized program from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, proven to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes through modest lifestyle changes made with the support of a coach and one’s peers. However, the main focus of the program is to help individuals lose at least 5 percent of their body weight to reduce their risk for chronic diseases, such as diabetes.
“Two-thirds of American adults are either overweight or obese, so the need for proven weight loss programs is certainly great to our community,” said Karen Crimmings, Chronic Disease and Health Promotion Service Manager, Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health.
The Diabetes Prevention Program will offer participants an opportunity to make lifestyle changes resulting in weight-loss and overall better health. Guided by a trained lifestyle coach, groups of participants will learn the skills they need to make lasting changes such as being more physically active, losing a modest amount of weight, and managing stress. In addition, they will learn how to eat healthy, stay motivated, and solve problems that can get in the way of healthy changes. Classes will meet every other week for eight sessions, then once a month for two months to maintain healthy lifestyle changes.
The program will be offered at two different times this fall. Thursday evening sessions will begin September 10th from 6:00-7:30 pm and Wednesday morning sessions will begin September 16th from 10:00-11:30 am. Both classes will be held in the Liberty Room, located in Mohawk Square, Mason City. The course is FREE to participants and includes a pre and post health screening. Enrollment for the course can be completed at www.cghealth.com or by calling 641-421-9303. Space is limited.
