The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is a one-year, community-based program where participants work in small groups with a trained Lifestyle Coach in a relaxed, classroom setting. The purpose of this program is to help adults improve their overall health and reduce their risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
Through 16 weekly sessions followed by 8 monthly sessions, participants learn how to incorporate healthier eating, physical activity, problem-solving and coping skills into their daily lives. Participants will get the hands-on support they need from a Lifestyle Coach trained in the delivery of a CDC-approved curriculum that is part of the CDC-led National Diabetes Prevention Program.
“…programs like YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program reduce new cases of type 2 diabetes by 58% overall and 71% in individuals over age 60.”
National Institutes of Health
Program Details
The program emphasizes two primary goals: reduce body weight by 5-7% and increase physical activity by 150 minutes per week. To sign up, participants must be:
- at least 18 years old;
- overweight (BMI greater than or equal to 25); AND
- Diagnosed with prediabetes via a blood test or gestational diabetes;
- if a blood test is not available or a qualifying risk score
For more information, please contact
Jennie Dawkins, Director of Community Health
[email protected]
For Physicians
How do I refer my patient? Please complete this referral form and fax it directly to the Community Health Office at 803-327-9149.
YMCA membership is not required!