November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and here at University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), we want to take a moment to spread awareness about something that affects many lives in our community: diabetes.
Whether you’re living with diabetes, at risk, or supporting a loved one, awareness, prevention, and small changes can make a big difference.
Why Does This Matter?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in nine adults in the U.S. live with diabetes, that’s more than 38 million Americans, and roughly 97 million have prediabetes. El Paso Center For Diabetes reports that 15.3% of the population in El Paso County have diabetes, a rate higher than both the Texas average, which is around 12%.
These numbers can seem alarming, but type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed with healthy habits and regular check-ups.
What Can You Do To Prevent It?
Preventing type 2 diabetes is possible, and here are some friendly ways to get started:
- Move more. Aim for about 30 minutes of physical activity most days. Even a brisk walk helps.
- Choose healthier foods. Eat plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and limit sugary drinks and processed carbs.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Know your risk factors. Age, family history, being inactive, high blood pressure/cholesterol and ethnicity all play a role.
Managing Diabetes
If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, you’re not alone, and with the right tools, it’s absolutely manageable. Remember to follow your treatment plan closely: medications, monitoring, lifestyle.
At UMC El Paso, our Diabetes Care Plus Program is designed to help patients stay on top of their health. The program, supported by a community grant, offers personalized education, medication management, and ongoing support from a dedicated clinical team.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call 1-800-473-8440 or 915-479-3484 today to schedule an appointment, or visit www.umcelpaso.org to learn more.
