Due to rapid transitions in both lifestyle and environment among American Indian/Alaska Native communities, populations and communities have suffered drastic increases in diabetes since the 1950s. American Indians and Alaska Natives are over two times more likely to have diabetes than non-Hispanic whites. Nearly 27% of American Indians in the Southern U.S. suffer from diabetes.

Diabetes Services

The goal of the Diabetes Wellness Program is to create awareness and improve the care of diabetes among American Indian and Alaska Native communities. For individuals and families living with diabetes, many services are available to assist you in leading a healthier life. For non-diabetic individuals, a sound initial assessment to determine risk factors for diabetes is an important first step in preventing or identifying symptoms of diabetes.

The Diabetes Wellness Program offers education on prevention, proper nutrition, physical exercise, intervention services, and direct referrals for medical screenings and care. The Diabetes Wellness Program focuses on elevating the health status of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level possible through lifestyle modification and preventative health strategies. Specific services include:

• Diabetes education
• Nutritional cooking classes and food menus
• Exercise programs
• Self management assistance
• Diabetes screening
• Individual and family consultations
• Support group
• Tobacco education & cessation
• Blood pressure screenings
• Youth fitness programs
• Adult and youth Body Mass Index screenings
• Referrals for medical screenings and care

Risk Factors for Diabetes

1. You are an American Indian or Alaska Native
2. Overweight
3. Over the age of Forty
4. Ever had a baby weighing more than 10 lbs.
5. Family history of Diabetes
6. Not physically active

   Make An Appointment to Learn More
   Services are provided at no charge for American Indians and Alaska Natives living in the Wasatch Front area.

   1. Call to speak with the Diabetes Wellness Program and set up a convenient time to visit.
   2. List things you would like to discuss, and know the names, if any, of the medications you are taking.
   3. Arrive at the Indian Walk-In Center on time and ask to meet with a Diabetes Team member.
   4. Please call the Diabetes Wellness Program if you cannot keep an appointment.

   More About Diabetes and Healthy Life Styles
   For more information about Diabetes or Healthy Lifestyles, call 1-800-438-5383 or visit the National Diabetes Educations Program’s web site learn more. Or, visit the National Healthy People 2010 web site learn more.