In recognition of Diabetes Awareness Month, Heritage Valley Health System is encouraging Southwestern Pennsylvania residents to learn their risk for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes and to take preventive action in reducing the chances of developing the disease.
According to the Center for Disease Control, 30.3 million Americans—nearly 1 in 10—have diabetes. Additionally, 84.1 million American adults—approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes.
“Diabetes is a very serious and prevalent disease within our community,” said Dr. Lucas Heller of Heritage Valley Multispecialty Group Endocrinology. “Without lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, moderate physical activity, weight loss, and even medication for some, many people living with prediabetes will go on to develop type 2 diabetes. We encourage people to take preventive steps so they can stay healthier longer and lower their risk.”
Heritage Valley offers a variety of educational services and programs for those who are at risk or need help managing diabetes.
LifeSmart provides healthy lifestyle programs for adults within the Heritage Valley Health System community who have been identified as having prediabetes, the leading risk factor for type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome or obesity. In this program, nurse educators and dietitians work with individuals on ways to implement behavior changes that will help them lead a healthier lifestyle that can possibly prevent diabetes. This program is provided at no cost. Participants must have a Heritage Valley Health System Physician, but do not need to have UPMC Health Plan benefits to participate.
Living with Diabetes encompasses three educational and specialized services: Healthy Living with Diabetes group class, One on One Instruction with a Certified Diabetes Nurse Educator, and One on One instruction with a Registered Dietitian for Nutrition Counseling (Medical Nutrition Therapy). The
Healthy Living with Diabetes classes cover information related to managing your diabetes and keeping your blood glucose in good control. These classes are taught by Registered Nurses and Registered Dietitians who are also certified diabetes educators.
Heritage Valley Endocrinology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and hormone disorders. Dr. Lucas Heller, Dr. Samantha DeMauro-Jablonski and Karen Mayo, CRNP work with patients to create a comprehensive care plan and individualized therapy. Their practices are located in Edgeworth, 100 Hazel Lane, Sewickley and Aliquippa, 2360 Hospital Drive. To make an appointment, call 724.773.8981.
To learn more about LifeSmart or Living with Diabetes, call Heritage Valley Community Health Services at 1.866.328.8389 or visit www.heritagevalley.org/pages/diabetes.
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About Heritage Valley Health System Heritage Valley Health System is a $480 million integrated delivery network providing comprehensive health care for residents of Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Lawrence counties, in Pennsylvania; eastern Ohio; and the panhandle of West Virginia. In partnership with 3,500 employees and more than 480 physicians, Heritage Valley offers a broad range of medical, surgical and diagnostic services at its two hospitals, Heritage Valley Sewickley and Heritage Valley Beaver; in 60 physician offices; and 18 community satellite facilities. For more information about Heritage Valley Health System, please visit www.heritagevalley.org.