Fill-in-Blank News Release for County Health Departments

For Release: _____, 2003
Contact: __________
_____ County Health Department
(Phone)

Health Officials Offer Tips for Managing Diabetes and Hypertension

November is American Diabetes Month, a reminder, say _____ County Health Department officials, that a diagnosis of diabetes is often taken too lightly.

“Many Oklahomans who are diagnosed with diabetes may initially feel fine and not require insulin or medication. They may be told that serious complications are years down the road. Yet, Oklahomans with diabetes are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure or hypertension than those who do not have diabetes," said _____, administrative director.

There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. With Type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin. Type 2 diabetes is when the body makes insulin, but it can’t use it effectively.

Oklahomans with both diabetes and high blood pressure are more likely to develop heart disease and have a stroke than Oklahomans who have only been diagnosed with diabetes. About half of Oklahomans with diabetes have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, with African Americans more likely than whites to develop both diseases.

"In order to prevent complications associated with these two conditions, Oklahomans with diabetes and high blood pressure should see their doctor regularly and take steps to improve their health,” said _____.

Weight control and regular exercise can significantly reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The treatment of Type 2 diabetes includes diet control, exercise, blood sugar (glucose) testing, and in some cases, oral medication and/or insulin injections.

By managing your diabetes effectively, devastating complications may be prevented. The _____ County Health Department advises the following actions:

• Eat foods to control blood sugar and salt intake.
• Be physically active.
• Quit smoking.
• If you drink alcohol beverages, do so in moderation.
• If you are on prescribed medication, take it as directed.
• Lose weight if needed.
• Test your blood sugar.
• Take your medication correctly.

If you think that you may be at risk for diabetes, please talk with your doctor. For more information about diabetes, contact the _____ County Health Department at (phone number).

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