Top 3 Things Everyone with Diabetes Should Know
1) Become Informed
• Knowledge is your first step to understanding diabetes and gaining control over your health
• Knowledge can be obtained from several sources in your community
i) Algoma Diabetes Education and Care Program (ADEC), a program of the Group Health Centre, is located at 83 Willow Avenue and offers a full range of services to educate those with Type 1, 2 and gestational diabetes, those with impaired glucose tolerance, their families, community agencies and health providers. Individual assessments, education, care and follow up is provided to all clients through a combination of individual and group sessions. Specialty education classes are available to all clients, which include label reading, cholesterol awareness, stress management and active living. These services are available by self-referral or by referral from your physician. Appointments can be made by calling 541-2670.
ii) Canadian Diabetes Association which is located at 134 Northern Avenue East can provide you with up to date literature and research information and can connect you to the community resources available to help you. Please visit the office or call 759-1233 for more information on the services available. (See below for further details.)
2) Take Action!
• Once you have armed yourself with knowledge of your disease and its complications, you are ready to move on to prevention. Use your new resources to seek out more information and professionals to assist you in preventing the complications of diabetes.
• A list of area resources and providers can be accessed through this web site.
• Make use of the resources available to help you. All resources including the Algoma Diabetes Education and Care Program and the Canadian Diabetes Association are available to you throughout your lifetime. Diabetes is complicated and progressive. The strategies you learn when you are first diagnosed may need to be altered as you age, your condition changes or new technology becomes available.
• Stay informed. Diabetes researchers make frequent advances that can optimize your diabetes care, extend your life and make managing your diabetes easier.
3) Maintain Control!
Once you have armed yourself with knowledge and professional support, take charge. Lead your health care team by doing all you can to improve your health and prevent diabetes complications. Your professional team is there for your support, but ultimately only you can prevent the serious complications of diabetes. Most importantly in your battle to prevent complications is to keep your blood glucose within the accepted range. Even if you feel well, having blood glucose levels that are chronically high can cause serious organ damage and circulatory problems and having low blood sugar can be just as dangerous. Every step you take to maintain optimal blood glucose level is one step towards improved health and a longer lifespan. Revisit your resources if you need to, and take charge of your health and your diabetes.