TWELFTH ANNUAL DIABETES WELLNESS EXPO 2013 TO BE HELD NOV. 19

More than 50 exhibitors will showcase health services, supplies and programs to Delawareans with diabetes or pre-diabetes at the Diabetes Wellness Expo, held Tuesday, Nov. 19 from 9 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino Conference Center. The event, organized by the Delaware Diabetes Coalition in collaboration with Delaware's Division of Public Health and other partners, will bring together caregivers, healthcare facilities, diabetes-related organizations and businesses to promote self-management and healthier lifestyles for people with diabetes or those at risk for the disease.

Almost 70,000 Delawareans have diabetes, the leading cause of kidney failure, adult blindness, lower-limb amputations, heart disease and stroke. The disease requires extensive medical monitoring and costly, lifelong treatment. According to the 2012 Delaware Behavioral Risk Factor Survey, an additional 52,000 Delawareans have pre-diabetes. People with pre-diabetes are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Those people can significantly prevent or reduce their risk for type 2 diabetes through increased physical activity, eating a healthy diet and other lifestyle changes.

The Diabetes Wellness Expo will host a variety of vendors related to the care and management of diabetes and preventive health. The expo includes educational presentations on diabetes management, services, resources and tips on controlling and preventing the disease. Health screenings include blood sugars, blood pressure, cholesterol, family risk assessments, foot care, eye exams and other diabetes related tests. The public is urged to participate and learn more about diabetes self-management for them or loved ones with diabetes or at risk for developing the disease. Door prizes and giveaways will be provided. Entrance to the expo is FREE.

For more information, please contact Betsy Wheeler, Executive Director, Delaware Diabetes Coalition via email at betsy@managetool.com or by phone at 302-698-9227.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.