(505) 699-9237 Office
New Mexicans urged to prevent & manage diabetes
SANTA FE — On November 14 World Diabetes Day, New Mexicans are encouraged to take advantage of free programs in the state to help prevent and manage diabetes and other chronic conditions.
“As a person managing Type 2 diabetes, I encourage New Mexicans to enroll in free programs and services, many of them done virtually, and in English and Spanish, to learn the risk factors of diabetes, how to prevent it, and, if diagnosed, how to manage it,” said Department of Health Secretary Patrick Allen. “Preventing and managing diabetes are key to improving the overall health and quality of life for so many New Mexicans.”
The American Diabetes Association estimates that as of 2022 there were 254,781 people in New Mexico with diabetes, an estimated 587,000 people in New Mexico with prediabetes. Every year an estimated 12,469 people in New Mexico are diagnosed with diabetes. Risk factors for diabetes include:
- 40 years of age or older
- Overweight or obese
- A family history of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or gestational diabetes
- Lack of physical activity
People with diabetes are at a higher risk of serious health complications, such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, loss of toes, feet or legs, and death. The good news is that 90-95% of diabetes is type 2 which can be delayed or even prevented.
The DOH partners with community-based organizations, community health workers, federally-qualified health centers, managed care organizations and pharmacies to offer free diabetes management, prevention and support programs to any adult in New Mexico at increased risk for diabetes.
New Mexicans can sign up for these services by visiting the Paths to Health NM: Tools for a Healthier Living Programs website or by calling the Wellness Referral Center at 505-850-0176 or 575-703-2343 Monday-Friday 8am-4pm.
To learn more visit the Diabetes Prevention and Control Program website.
Media Contact
We would be happy to provide additional information about this press release. Simply contact David Barre at (505) 699-9237 (Office) with your questions.
Versión en Español
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Se pide a los nuevomexicanos que prevengan y controlen la diabetes