News

Beebe Sponsors Seminar During National Diabetes Month

10/31/05

Nearly 21 million Americans have Diabetes, and more than 6 million of them don't even know it, according to a report recently published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

And as people age, poor diets and lack of exercise are causing these numbers to swell. The CDC report said that there could be as many as 41 million people suffering from pre-diabetes, a condition that increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes -- the most common form of the disease that is developed later in life. Dr. Frank Vinicor, Director of CDC's diabetes program, warned in the nationwide announcement that two-thirds of people with diabetes will die from heart attack or stroke.

Beebe Medical Center, to bring attention to this life-threatening disease during National Diabetes Month, is holding a free seminar from 10 a.m. to noon on November 21 at the South Coastal Library in Bethany Beach to educate people about diabetes and give information on how people with diabetes can reduce their risk of stroke and heart disease.

Florence Kasden, CRNP Adult and Certified Diabetes Educator from Beebe Medical Center, will present information. Beebe Medical Center has a dedicated diabetes management program that not only helps patients control their disease, but that brings the latest treatments to Beebe physicians and staff. A multi-disciplinary committee of medical center representatives meets regularly to discuss what can be done to improve the quality of life for those with diabetes. Beebe Medical Center dietitians also meet with patients to help them improve their meal plans.

For more information, call the Wound Care Center at the Beebe Long Neck Health Center at 947-2500.