With tens of millions of Americans at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, a regional health initiative aims to help residents take meaningful preventative measures.
The YMCA of Northwest North Carolina is now enrolling participants in its year-long Diabetes Prevention Program, which it describes as a structured lifestyle shift emphasizing changes in diet, exercise, and other daily habits.
Backed by research from the National Institutes of Health, the regional YMCA says programs like this have been shown to lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58% to 71%.
The initiative is geared toward at-risk adults and offers a combination of education, accountability, and peer support. After 16 weekly sessions led by a trained lifestyle coach, monthly maintenance meetings focus on long-term sustainability.
Organizers say the group format helps participants stay motivated, and a grant subsidizing enrollment allows participants to join for a $50 registration fee, compared to the typical price of $500.
The fee can be earned back by meeting certain benchmarks during the program, and additional incentives include a complementary three-month YMCA membership, gas gift cards, and other benefits aimed at reducing barriers to participation.
A virtual session is scheduled for July 13 and those interested in registering or learning more can contact Chelsea Mullins at 336-245-7228 or c.mullins@ymcanwnc.org.
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