Diabetes Prevention

Pre-diabetes is Preventable! Act Now!

If caught in time, diabetes can be managed and kidney disease avoided. Get your blood sugar tested by calling your doctor and taking the quiz below.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes of kidney failure. Family history of kidney disease can play a significant role. Kidney disease is more common in those 60 and over, those with heart disease, and in Blacks, Hispanics, or Native Americans.

Interested in learning more about diabetes prevention in Whatcom County? Contact Mount Baker Foundation's Diabetes Prevention Coordinator at kate@mtbakerfoundation.org.

How can I find out if I am pre-diabetic, or at risk for diabetes?

Call your doctor.
Take a simple blood sugar test — even a finger stick test can help.
Take the pre-diabetes test. If you are at risk, see your doctor.

Pre-diabetes Resources

Pre-diabetes is a serious health condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Approximately 96 million American adults—more than 1 in 3—have prediabetes. Of those with prediabetes, more than 80% don't know they have it. The good news, prediabetes is reversible!

Check out our Facebook page for current diabetes prevention information!

Here are some excellent resources to help you eat healthier:

Program Components

The National DPP uses a research-based curriculum that combines nutrition, physical activity, and stress management techniques into one program.

The 12-month National DPP lifestyle change program is approved by the CDC and is led by a trained lifestyle coach. Participants may attend in-person, virtually, through distance learning, or a combination of the three.

First Six Months

The first half of the program provides a foundation to set your patient up for success. This essential knowledge starts their health journey and includes information on:

Healthy eating: Participants discover ways to enjoy a tasty and balanced nutrition that incorporates foods traditional to their culture.
Physical activity: Participants learn ways to incorporate physical activity into their everyday routine to reach 150 minutes per week.
Stress management: Participants discover ways to overcome stress and challenges that disrupt a healthy lifestyle.
Overcoming challenges: Participants navigate common obstacles such as eating when dining out, going on vacation, and attending holiday gatherings.
Getting back on track: We’ll provide participants with the support they need to bounce back when setbacks happen.

Second Six Months

The second phase reinforces what they’ve learned and includes monthly meetings to set goals and track progress. Here, they receive guidance, encouragement, and accountability.

Resources/ Classes available locally:

ADA Project Power available at NO Cost
YMCA: Diabetes Prevention Program Local
YMCA has programs for diabetes prevention and nutrition Virtual (King County)
Sea Mar: Diabetes Prevention Program Local
Sea Mar: Salud Preventiva (Educación Nutricional) Local
Sensibly Sprouted (Education, Nutrition)
Lifestyle RX (Education, Nutrition)

Diabetes Resources

Here are some excellent resources from the CDC to help you navigate diabetes:

Engaging in a diabetes support group represents a proactive strategy for discovering assistance, guidance, insights, and resources: Ask Your provider, Search online for Virtual support or explore these local resources:

Drop-in for diabetes answers Peace Health

A place for friends, family, and individuals living with diabetes, pre-diabetes, or concerned about diabetes to get their questions answered by a certified diabetes care and education specialist. No Registration Required – Just Show Up! Monthly

First Wednesday of every month
3:30-4:30 p.m.
PeaceHealth Cordata Main, Conference Room 1
4545 Cordata Parkway, lower level
Questions? Call 360-752-5206