University Times

Diabetes self-management program started by UPMC

UPMC South Side will begin a Diabetes Self-Management Program, an initiative that will provide persons who have diabetes with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve and maintain good health and help prevent complications.

The program will be offered free for the month of June; after that, there will be a charge that may be covered by insurance. All classes will take place at UPMC South Side, 2000 Mary St.

Diabetes is the sixth-leading cause of death by disease in the United States. In Pennsylvania alone, more than 1 million individuals have the disease, and an estimated third of them do not know it. Left untreated or unmanaged, diabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, nerve damage and heart disease.

The first class is scheduled for June 5, and will address the program, family support, psychosocial adjustment, benefits and responsibilities of self-care and goal-setting.

To register or for more information, call 488-5868.