The program features an introduction to the 2004 Wisconsin Essential Diabetes Care Guidelines, which incorporate the latest scientific evidence regarding good diabetes care, and a cooking demonstration by the Happy Diabetic Chef, Robert Lewis.  Anyone who has diabetes or knows someone who has diabetes is encouraged to attend this free event.

    “Diabetes is a serious, common, costly, but controllable disease affecting over 330,000 people in Wisconsin,” said Ross Tarnow of Rosendale, Lions District Diabetes Chairman.  People with diabetes are at increased risk of numerous complications, including blindness, kidney disease, foot and leg amputations, heart disease, stroke, and oral infections, including periodontal diseases.  Many of these adverse outcomes can be prevented, or at least delayed, by an aggressive program of more preventive care, prompt identification of problems, early intervention and treatment.  Although there are clinically proven methods to improve health outcomes, current studies show that people with diabetes do not receive recommended levels of preventive care.  To access the Wisconsin Essential Diabetes Care Guidelines online, go to http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/health/diabetes/.

    For more information, call the Diabetes Prevention and Control Program at (608) 261-6871.