Stop diabetes before it starts
SANTA FE – In New Mexico, the odds are you know someone with prediabetes; you may even have it yourself and not realize it.
Prediabetes is a warning sign you are at risk of developing diabetes, which is the sixth leading cause of death in New Mexico. Twenty-four percent of New Mexico adults over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with the disease. Diabetes significantly increases your risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious health conditions.
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) recognizes November as National Diabetes Awareness Month and encourages everyone to learn their risk for diabetes.
“Diabetes is a serious illness that can be prevented or delayed through early detection and lifestyle modifications,” said Lindsey Goodhue, Diabetes and Cardiovascular Health Section director for NMDOH. “Anyone with risk factors should talk to a medical provider and get screened.”
Risk factors for diabetes include:
- Family health history of diabetes.
- Being 45 and over.
- Being overweight.
- Being physically active less than three days a week.
You can decrease your chances of being prediabetic or diabetic by:
- Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet.
- Exercising regularly.
- Drinking water as your primary beverage.
- Quitting smoking.
- Losing excess weight.
NMDOH offers free programs to help New Mexicans prevent or control type 2 diabetes. Visit PathstoHealthNM.org for class and enrollment information. You’ll also find a link to a short online test from the American Diabetes Association to determine your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
For more information, call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) or text 66364 (NMDOH).
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