Small Steps, Big Rewards!!!
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
by Kathy Stroh, M.S., R.D.

Type 2 Diabetes (formerly called maturity-onset diabetes and non-insulin dependent diabetes) is an epidemic in America. Some risk factors, such as family history, age and ethnicity cannot be changed. But altering strong risk factors, such as overweight and inactive lifestyle can definitely reduce the chances of developing Type 2 Diabetes. Results from a major study, the Diabetes Prevention Program, showed that diabetes prevention is possible, powerful and proven!

Small steps can produce big rewards in the fight against Type 2 Diabetes. Only 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week and a 5-7% reduction in body weight can prevent or delay the onset of this disease. In other words, you don't have to knock yourself out to prevent diabetes - small steps can produce big rewards.

The National Diabetes Education Program has a game plan, toolkit and other resources available on the internet at www.ndep.nih.gov or by calling 1-888-693-NDEP (6337).

Another important resources is the Delaware Diabetes Prevention and Control Program. For more information, contact Delaware's Division of Public Health .

But...do something. Claim your Big Rewards by doing the Small Steps.