Diabetes is a disease that results in high glucose (sugar) levels in a person’s blood which prevents the body from using insulin properly. Diabetes is an important public health concern in New Jersey and is the sixth leading cause of death in the state among adults. Almost one-third of New Jersey adult residents age 25-65 have diabetes, and it is getting worse. From 1996 to 2010, the estimated rate of new adult diabetes cases more than doubled in New Jersey. Although diabetes can lead to many serious health issues, treatment, and healthy lifestyle habits can prevent or delay these complications.
NJ 2-1-1, in partnership with the NJ Department of Health, is committed to providing the most up-to-date information on diabetes prevention and education to its callers. As part of this initiative, when a caller expresses an interest in learning more on this topic our call specialists will provide them with information about diabetes prevention and management classes in their area.
To find a location in your area for any of the programs described below, click here and then place your zip code in the area indicated at the top of the page.
The National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is a year-long program aimed at preventing type 2 diabetes by encouraging participants to make real lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, including physical activity into their daily lives, and improving problem-solving and coping skills. Participants will meet with a trained lifestyle coach and a small group of people who are also participating in the program. Sessions are weekly for 6 months and then monthly for 6 months.
The Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) and training is a collaborative process through which people with diabetes gain the knowledge and skills needed to modify their behavior and successfully self-manage the disease and its related conditions. The needs, goals, and life experiences of participants with diabetes are incorporated throughout this training.
The Stanford Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP) includes workshops that are facilitated by a highly detailed manual by two trained leaders, one or both of whom are peer leaders with diabetes themselves. Classes are highly interactive, encouraging mutual support and success in an effort to build participants’ confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives.
The six-week program takes place in community settings such as churches, community centers, libraries, and hospitals. Classes meet weekly and are each 2½ hours long. Each participant in the workshop receives a copy of the companion book, Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions, 4th Edition, and an audio relaxation tape.
This program does not conflict with existing programs or treatment. Treatment is not altered. For medical questions, participants are referred to their physicians or diabetes educators. If the content of the workshop conflicts with instructions they receive elsewhere, participants are advised to follow their physicians' orders and discuss discrepancies with their physician.
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Morris County Diabetes Case Management
Do you have Diabetes or Pre-Diabetes and live in Morris County? If so, then you qualify for free one-on-one case management and support. Find out more information about this program here.