For those at risk for diabetes, the next step is to make the necessary changes to help prevent the disease. All YMCA branches are currently enrolling for the September 2016 session of its Diabetes Prevention Program.

The program uses a curriculum approved by the Centers for Disease Control, and is part of the CDC-led National Diabetes Prevention Program. Studies have shown the program can prevent or delay new cases of type 2 diabetes by 58-percent, or by 71-percent for those over age 60.

The YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program teaches participants how making positive behavior changes—including healthier eating and increasing physical activity—helps their risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

The program is facilitated by a trained lifestyle coach, offers small group settings for its one-hour sessions (either 16, weekly sessions or eight, monthly sessions), and includes a one year adult membership to the YMCA.

For more information, contact Diabetes Prevention Coordinator Dara Midwood at dmidwood@ymcasouthcoast.org, call (508) 996-9622 x141, or visit ymca.net/diabetes.