Diabetes Educator Speaks to Club

Diabetes Type II is a chronic, lifetime illness impacting more and more Americans of all ages, but it can be avoided if people adopt more healthy lifestyles, according to Mrs. Marilyn Novosel, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator.

She was the guest speaker Nov. 6 at the weekly meeting of the Sanford Lions Club and was introduced by her husband, Lion Nick Novosel. The speaker noted that November is American Diabetes Awareness Month and last week was National Diabetes Education Week, thus discussing risk factors and management techniques for this very serious illness was very timely. She works with a non-profit organization providing diabetes education classes.

While family history, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are often key risk factors for Diabetes Type II, being overweight is the number one factor seen in those contracting the illness. Persons who are at risk, but not yet at high blood-sugar levels, have a good chance of avoiding diabetes they adopt healthy eating and exercise habits. A good diet consisting of a wide variety of foods and smaller portions along with an exercise routine are key factors to good health, Mrs. Novosel said.

But for those already with high blood-sugar, proper management of diet, exercise, medication, following a physician’s instructions, and staying properly informed of latest developments in the treatment of diabetes can improve one’s life. Anyone with symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision or a sudden feeling of hunger should consult a physician. Complications from diabetes can include kidney problems, blindness, loss of limbs, and chances of heart and stroke events.

Mrs. Novosel explained that type II diabetes once was associated primarily with middle-aged adults, but now with many children displaying signs of obesity the age range has dipped greatly. Type I diabetes, commonly known as juvenile diabetes, continues to strike younger people whose bodies do not produce insulin. Those with type II do produce insulin, but it is not utilized properly at the cellular level. While many type II patients need only pills to maintain acceptable sugar levels, some in this category must also inject insulin.

President-elect Richard Hendley presided over the dinner meeting while Nick Novosel gave the invocation. Roy Jernigan led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance. Tail Twister Wendell McGee entertained the crowd with a series of jokes and humorous stories.