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Does someone in your family have type 2 diabetes? In the Uintah Basin, 11.1% of our community has diabetes. Many more are at high risk of developing diabetes, a diagnosis of prediabetes. Our families are affected, from our roots to our branches. https://ibis.health.utah.gov/ibisph-view/indicator/view/DiabPrev.LHD.html
 

Type 2 diabetes has a strong link to family history and lineage, and studies of twins have shown that genetics plays a very strong role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Yet it also depends on environmental factors. Lifestyle also influences the development of type 2 diabetes. Obesity tends to run in families, and families tend to have similar eating and exercise habits.

If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, it may be difficult to figure out whether your diabetes is due to lifestyle factors or genetic susceptibility. Most likely it is due to both. However, don’t lose heart. Studies show that it is possible to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes by exercising and losing weight. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/genetics-diabetes

However, many people with prediabetes are unaware of their condition. Once individuals are aware that they have prediabetes and of their increased risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular complications, they can make the necessary lifestyle changes to prevent or at least delay progression to type 2 diabetes.

Simple lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating more fruits and vegetables, and increasing physical activity, can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Without making lifestyle changes, approximately half of individuals diagnosed with prediabetes progress to diabetes within ten years.
 
In order to help individuals and families find success in making these lifestyle changes, the TriCounty Health Department offers the Diabetes Prevention Program. This program is designed to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by a stunning 58 percent in adults at high risk for the disease.
 
“I’m so glad I joined this program so I can be there for my grandkids.” -Dave, 68, program participant. The importance of this desire cannot be overstated. Join us today at tricountyhealth.com/diabetes-prevention. Sign up for our January 15, 2020 group launch. Take health matters in your own capable hands. Call 435-247-1168 to speak with a TriCounty Health Educator. https://tricountyhealth.com/health-promotion/diabetes-prevention/