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| HNMC Encourages Awareness, Urges Screening on American Diabetes Alert Day |
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Houston Northwest Medical Center
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Houston Northwest Medical Center will recognize Tuesday, March 25 as American Diabetes Alert Day to help raise awareness of this serious medical condition. This year will mark the 20th anniversary of the call-to-action by the American Diabetes Association that encourages people to find out if they are at risk for the disease.
More than 20 million Americans have diabetes, but nearly one-third of those people do not know their health is at risk because of this silent disease. Common symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, intense hunger, abnormal weight loss, increased fatigue, irritability and blurred vision. People at higher risk for developing the disease are those who are African American, Latino, Native American, Asian American or Pacific Islander. In addition to smoking and lack of exercise, certain health problems that can lead to diabetes include obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
An on-line screening quiz available from Houston Northwest Medical Center is an easy way to find out if you are at risk for diabetes. You can visit the hospital’s Web site at www.hnmc.com/alert. Testing for diabetes is also quick and simple. The fasting plasma glucose test measures the glucose level in your blood. A level between 100 and 125 mg/dl signals pre-diabetes; 126 mg/dl or higher confirms a diagnosis of diabetes.
If you are diagnosed with diabetes, there is help. The Diabetes Self-Management Education Program at Houston Northwest Medical Center has been Recognized by the American Diabetes Association for Quality Self-Management Education. The Program’s trained staff teaches patients about their specific needs and offers tips to lead an enjoyable lifestyle despite having the disease. The Program provides counseling, classes and support groups to improve self-care skills and reduce the risk of complications. For more information about the Program, call 281-440-2266.
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