Chronic Disease Prevention

Chronic Disease Prevention Programs

Childhood Obesity Prevention

The Florida Department of Health in Glades County provides healthy programs at West Glades School focusing on the 5-2-1-0 program. This program promotes 5 fruits and vegetables daily, no more than 2 hours of screen time, 1 hour of physical activity, and an emphasis on no sugary drinks or tobacco products. Grades K-3 participate in the Fresh 2 U monthly fruit and vegetable tasting program to increase fruit and vegetable consumption and the classroom based Mileage Club to increase physical activity. Fourth grade classes have a monthly Fresh 2 U Cooking Class with healthy lessons. In addition the 4th graders have Morning Mileage Club 2 days a week before school. These programs encourage youth at an early age to make good decisions to eat more fruits and veggies and be more active.

  
Healthier Hendry Glades Task Force
 
In 2011 many members of the Local Public Health System came together to complete the CDC’s local assessment of our county. In 2012 we set plans to continue the work focusing on child and adult obesity, diabetes prevention, and education about available services. The partnership is working together to apply for small grants to expand healthy messages in Glades counties. The Healthier Me! weightloss program will continue in 2015. To participate call (863)674-4041 ext. 135.

Glades Diabetes Prevention Partnership

Florida Department of Health in Glades County in collaboration with Hendry Regional Medical Center offer the National Diabetes Prevention Program at no cost to participants that provides information and tools to help reduce the risk of developing diabetes. The accountability of a group setting and the guidance and support of the Life Coach will support and encourage you to reduce your risk. Sessions are offered in LaBelle, Clewiston and Moore Haven. Special groups may be accommodated as well.

To qualify for this program, you must be:
- at least 18 years old, and
- overweight (BMI greater than 25 - look for your height and weight - where they meet is your BMI), and
- at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes
or
- at least 18 years old, and
- have been diagnosed with "pre-diabetes" by a healthcare provider

*Note: If you have already been diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you do not qualify for this program; however, Hendry Regional Medical Center offers a Diabetes Self-Management Program at no cost. Call 863 983-1123 for more information and dates.
 

Don't know if you are at "high risk"? Take the "KNOW YOUR SCORE" short test to determine if you are at risk for developing pre-diabetes or diabetes. This test does NOT mean that you have diabetes. One or more blood tests ordered by your healthcare provider would be needed to confirm you have diabetes.

For more information please contact Mary Ruth Prouty at 863 674-4041 Ext-135