Free Diabetic Supplies

There are millions of people in the United States who have diabetes.  Some of them have the information they need to understand and control their symptoms and others do not.  This is not necessarily for lack of trying on their part or the part of their health care providers, it is often because individuals don’t know what they are looking for and don’t know what questions to ask.

In addition to the millions of people who have diabetes, there are about 60 million people who have pre-diabetes and are on the verge of developing full blown diabetes.  Most of these individuals don’t even realize that they are in this situation and they have no idea what the consequences could be.

Recent studies have discovered that one of the best methods of getting the essential facts and information about diabetes to these individuals is through the community.  This is easier said than done, since some communities may not have a solid network to present information and programs in a way that would truly educate the individuals by giving them the actual information they need.

Researchers at Indiana University Medical Center have studied the situation to determine how to get the information and statistics into the hands of the people who need it – and how to do this in a usable and understandable way.  Their conclusion is that the YMCA is the perfect organization to get the job done.

Most communities – whether rural, inner city or somewhere in between – have a YMCA.  The YMCA is equipped to deliver programs to help people in the community, and does so on a regular basis, whether presenting an afternoon seminar or an ongoing series. 

Researchers have determined that many of the individuals who are dealing with diabetes and others who have pre-diabetes – whether they know it or not – are not aware of some of the essential information they need, and those who have information about lifestyle, diet and other changes do not know how to translate this information into action.

A pilot study showed that by using the YMCA to provide an education and exercise program at a reduced rate in conjunction with community health services, it helped individuals who had pre-diabetes to understand and control their symptoms over a long-term period and it helped those who had diabetes to control their symptoms better and stay healthier.

The pilot gives encouragement and new ideas as a model for what could be achieved throughout the country to combat diabetes at a community level and support people in trying to live healthier lives.