The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is encouraging residents to learn about diabetes risk and seek early screening as the state observes National Diabetes Awareness Month this November. The department emphasizes that early detection and lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.
According to NMDOH, prediabetes is a warning sign that a person may develop diabetes. Risk factors include having a family history of diabetes, being overweight, being physically inactive, and being age 45 or older.
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The department recommends maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, drinking water, quitting vices such as smoking, and losing excess weight to help reduce diabetes risk. NMDOH also offers free programs to help residents prevent or manage type 2 diabetes.
Residents can visit PathstoHealthNM.org for information about available classes and enrollment. The website also provides access to an online diabetes risk assessment from the American Diabetes Association.
What's Next
The department encouraged to consult a medical provider about diabetes screening if they have risk factor. There is a free learning diabetes prevention and control programs that they can visit on PathstoHealthNM.org.
Why It Matters
Identifying diabetes early gives people an opportunity to take a step back to prevent or delay its development, since prediabetes can go unnoticed. Raising awareness about risk factors and accessible prevention programs can help residents make informed and reasonable decisions about their health.
