November 4, 2020

One in three adults in the nation has prediabetes, a serious health condition that increases a person’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Without lifestyle change, 15-30% of people with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within five years.

The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment has new Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) classes starting soon, both in-person and virtually. The program is a lifestyle-change program that helps people with prediabetes make healthier choices that have a lasting health impact.

Participants meet weekly in a group to achieve the program goals of losing 5 to 7% of starting body weight and increase physical activity minutes to 150 per week.

Studies show that DPP participants can lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by as much as 58% (71% if you’re over age 60). Program participants are often able to lower their blood pressure, cholesterol and risk for cardiovascular disease as well.

JCDHE has offered DPP classes since 2015 and is fully recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Each week, a trained lifestyle coach guides the group through a different health-related topic. Participants engage with each other and learn together, ensuring that each participant feels supported on their journey toward better health.

Several DPP classes are starting in November. Virtual classes will meet via the Zoom platform. In-person classes will adhere to strict safety guidelines, including maintaining social distance, mask wearing at all times, clean and disinfected surfaces and hand sanitizer available for all participants.

Medicare and other insurance plans cover the program, making DPP free for most participants. Classes are currently offered in American Sign Language and English.

More information is available by contacting Anne Hayse, registered dietitian at JCDHE, at 913-477-8128 or dpp@jocogov.org