The Lions Clubs of Saskatchewan, in partnership with the Canadian Diabetes Association, have announced a major province-wide diabetes detection program.
This new program will increase awareness of diabetes, provide diabetes education and implement a call-to-action for individuals classified as high-risk for developing type 2 diabetes in Saskatchewan.
"The focus of this newly-introduced diabetes detection program is to prevent and reduce the impact of diabetes as a public health concern," says Ron Metcalfe, district governor for Southern Saskatchewan Lions Club.
The Lions Clubs of Saskatchewan will hold 50 or more diabetes screening and education events across the province over a two-year period. The program is designed to provide individuals ages 40 to 74 with their personal risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
"It will not only identify those at highest risk for developing type 2 diabetes, but will provide these individuals with a pathway to receive care," Metcalf explains.
"Many people are unaware they are at high-risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Early detection means delaying or event preventing serious secondary complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and limb amputations."
"The Canadian Diabetes Association thanks the Lions Clubs of Saskatchewan for truly helping us to lead the fight against diabetes in this province," says Warren Wagner, regional director for the Canadian Diabetes Association.
"Saskatchewan currently faces the highest combined prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes in the Prairies. Without taking immediate action, that number will continue to grow."
"Collaboration across sectors is important in diabetes prevention, care and management," said Health Minister Dustin Duncan. "Together, we can reduce the risk of diabetes, and continue helping people living with the disease to have a better quality of life."
