Focused on Diabetes Care
One in three people in Kentucky is at risk of developing diabetes, and many adults have diabetes without knowing it. Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar, or glucose, which is the body’s main source of energy. When not properly managed, diabetes can lead to serious and long-term health problems that impact nearly every part of the body.
Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves over time, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss and circulation problems. In severe cases, poor circulation can even lead to infections or amputations. Beyond physical complications, diabetes can also take a toll on mental and emotional health, often causing stress, fatigue and anxiety as patients try to balance daily management needs.
Managing diabetes is essential to maintaining a healthy and active life. With proper care, many complications can be delayed or prevented. Healthy eating, regular physical activity, routine blood sugar monitoring and adherence to prescribed medications all play key roles in controlling the disease. Diabetes education programs, like those offered at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), help patients gain the knowledge and confidence to manage their condition effectively and build healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Living with diabetes can be challenging, but it is far from hopeless. By taking control of the disease and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can protect their health and improve their quality of life.
Benefits of Diabetes Education
Diabetes education plays a vital role in helping individuals and families better understand and manage this complex condition. At PMC, the Diabetes Education Program offers the tools, resources and personal guidance patients need to take control of their health and improve their quality of life.
One of the greatest benefits of diabetes education is improved disease management. The program at PMC helps patients learn how to monitor blood sugar levels, use medications correctly, make balanced food choices, stay active and cope with the emotional challenges that often come with diabetes. By understanding how lifestyle choices affect blood glucose, patients can make small, meaningful changes that have a lasting impact on their overall well-being.
Education also empowers patients to take a proactive approach to their care. Rather than responding to symptoms after they appear, patients can recognize warning signs early and make informed decisions about treatment. This helps create stronger partnerships between patients and their healthcare providers, allowing for more personalized and effective care.
Another key benefit of diabetes education is the prevention of long-term complications. Gaining the right knowledge can help people better manage diabetes and reduce risks associated with nerve damage, vision problems, kidney disease and heart complications. Learning how to manage blood sugar levels and build healthier habits can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.
Support and community are equally important parts of diabetes care. PMC offers a monthly diabetes support group where patients and their families can connect, share experiences, exchange recipes and offer encouragement. This sense of community helps reduce feelings of isolation and provides ongoing motivation to stay on track.
In a region like Eastern Kentucky, where diabetes is common, access to education and preventive care is crucial. Pikeville Medical Center’s program focuses on reaching people where they are through screenings, educational sessions and outreach at local health fairs. By providing tailored education close to home, PMC helps make healthier living more achievable for everyone.
If you or someone you know is living with diabetes or pre-diabetes, take the next step toward better health. For more information, call (606) 430-8120 or visit www.pmcky.org/diabetes-education.
Diabetes Screening Day
The Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) Diabetes Education Team invites the community to join them for Diabetes Screening Day on Tuesday, Nov. 11, in the hospital’s second-floor atrium from 7 a.m. to noon. The event is open to everyone and offers a friendly, informative way to learn more about diabetes and take charge of your health.
Guests can stop by for a quick glucose test to check their blood sugar levels and chat with PMC’s Diabetes Education Team about what the results mean. Team members will also share helpful tips on healthy eating, staying active and managing or preventing diabetes.
Diabetes is common in Eastern Kentucky, and many people may not realize they’re at risk. This event provides an easy and welcoming opportunity to get screened, ask questions and pick up useful resources for healthier living.
Everyone is encouraged to stop in, meet the team and take an important step toward better health.
For more information about Diabetes Screening Day or the PMC Diabetes Education Program, call 606-430-8120 or visit www.pmcky.org/diabetes-education