When: April
What: Diabetes is a prevalent health condition in the United States, affecting millions of Americans each year. According to JDRF, a new case of diabetes is diagnosed every 30 seconds, and yet there are still many cases of diabetes that are missed and go untreated. This April, focus on prevention, management and early identification during Defeat Diabetes Month.
Background: Defeat Diabetes Month is sponsored by the Defeat Diabetes Foundation, and aims to make people aware of the risk factors and warning signs associated with diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 215,000 people, 20 and younger, had diabetes in the United States in 2010. Many people aren’t aware that diabetes can be prevented, and in some cases, managed with proper diet and exercise.
Story Pitch: A number of people and organizations can promote Defeat Diabetes Month. Family doctors and pediatricians may use this month to discuss the different types and risk factors of diabetes. Nutritionists and dieticians are able to discuss prevention with their clients by addressing proper diet. Schools and school nurses may address the issue of diabetes by alerting parents of the risks of juvenile diabetes. Meanwhile, grocers and restaurants can also recommend diets that aid against the onset of diabetes.
Story Hook: Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Consider the following when making your pitch:
- What are some of the major risk factors of diabetes?
- How can diabetes be managed through diet and exercise?
- What resources are available to manage existing diabetes?
- How can diabetes be prevented?
Tips: A pediatrician would be a great resource to discuss juvenile diabetes and the risks it poses. Someone who is living with diabetes and managing it would also be a good resource.
Resources:
American Diabetes Association
(800) 342-2383
askada(at)diabetes.org
www.diabetes.org
Center for Disease Control
(800) 232-4636
cdcinfo(at)cdc.gov
www.cdc.gov
Defeat Diabetes Foundation Inc.
(727) 391-5050
www.defeatdiabetes.org
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
(800) 533-2873
info(at)jdrf.org
www.jdrf.org
–Researched, compiled & written by Kimberly Cooper
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