In recognition of World Diabetes Day, St. Francis Medical Center’s Diabetes Management program will host a free diabetes education event Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. to noon, in St. Francis Medical Center, 601 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton.
The event features diabetic dental and eye exams, blood pressure readings, diabetic foot exams, stress management techniques and blood glucose testing if needed. Dilated eye exams will be provided by Project BEST (Better Eye Health Services & Treatment) of NJ Department of Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired). Snacks, giveaways and door prizes will also be offered at the event.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30.3 million Americans, or 9.4 percent of the U.S. population, have diabetes. Another 84.1 million have pre-diabetes, a condition that if not treated often leads to type 2 diabetes within five years.
In New Jersey, approximately 640,000 adults have diabetes, and it is the eighth leading cause of death in the state. In Trenton alone, it is said that diabetes is nearly twice that of the national rate, with about 16 percent of residents coping with the disease.
Diabetes continues to represent a growing health problem. Yearly exams are recommended for those with diabetes. In addition to increasing a person’s risk of heart attack and stroke, diabetes complications can include neuropathy (nerve damage), hypertension, kidney disease, vision loss, and skin infections.
Call 609-599-6215 for questions or to schedule a dilated eye exam appointment.