Diabetes Alert Day to feature free screenings, cooking demos, docudrama

As a part of American Diabetes Alert Day, the DeKalb Board of Health will host a Diabetes Alert Day event on Tuesday, March 27, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., at the Richardson Health Center, 445 Winn Way in Decatur.

The free event, which is open to the public, will feature diabetes education and screenings, a panel discussion with experts in the field, healthy cooking demonstrations and a showing of the docudrama, The Debilitator. The 30-minute film explores the impact and complications of diabetes through a variety of personalities and lifestyle choices. The film is designed to help the public understand the importance of being tested, especially when symptoms are not present.

“Everyone should be aware of their risk factors for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes,” said DeKalb County District Health Director S. Elizabeth Ford, M.D.  “Diabetes Alert Day is a wake-up call about the importance of talking to a health care provider and understanding diabetes risk factors. Early diagnosis plays a vital role in receiving prompt treatment to better manage the disease.”

It is estimated that 1.1 million people, or 14% of adults, in Georgia have diabetes. In DeKalb County alone, there were 7,734 hospitalizations and 655 deaths due to diabetes from 2012 through 2016.

For more information about Diabetes Alert Day call 404-508-7847 or email dekalb.ocdp@dph.ga.gov.