Calvert County Health Department

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Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which your blood glucose (sugar) levels are too high. Over time, high levels of blood glucose can damage the nerves and small blood vessels of the eyes, kidneys, and heart. Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they almost always have “prediabetes” — glucose levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of developing complications from diabetes.

Know Your Numbers:

The A1C test measures your average blood glucose for the past 2-3 months

RESULT A1C
Normal:  < 5.7%
Prediabetes:  5.7%-6.4%
Diabetes: ≥ 6.5%

 

Living Well with DiabetesLiving Well with Diabetes is a 6-week self-management workshop for those with type II diabetes and pre-diabetes. Learn the keys to take charge of your diabetes. Classes are free, but registration is required.

Living Well with Diabetes Class Schedule
Call to register: 410-535-5400, x459

Register on-line

For additional classes, visit CalvertHealth Hospital

Prevention

  • Healthy Weight
    Staying at a healthy weight can help you prevent and manage problems like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol, and high blood glucose.
  • Healthy Eating * Staying at a healthy weight can help you prevent and manage problems like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol, and high blood glucose.
    * Eating well to maintain a healthy weight is one of the most important things you can do to lower your risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It can seem hard to make healthy food choices, particularly if you are on a budget and short on time. But there are some simple steps you can take to help you and your family eat healthier. Choose one or two of these suggestions to start today.
    * Use a grocery list when shopping for food to help you choose more fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
    * Buy leaner meats (such as chicken, turkey and lean cuts of pork or beef such as sirloin or chuck roast) and lower fat dairy products (like low-fat or skim milk and yogurt).
    * Buy whole grain breads and cereals.
    * Save money by buying less soda, sweets and chips or other snack foods.
  • Physical Activity
    Even if you’ve never exercised before, you can find ways to add physical activity to your day. Physical activity can be beneficial even if it is not strenuous. Incorporating physical activity into your life can greatly improve overall health.

Having diabetes means COVID-19 can be more dangerous for you.

Learn more about diabetes: mdh-dl-calchd-communityhealthcchd@maryland.gov

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