Press Release
Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare hosts "Diabetes Expo Health & Wellness Fair"
For immediate release, October 31, 2008
Contact
Christine Doucet, Public Relations Coordinator, 630-993-5819
ELMHURST – Did you know that an estimated 21 million Americans have diabetes and 6.2 million of them don't know that they have the disease? Each year, over 1.5 million American adults are diagnosed with diabetes. Experts agree that these statistics are alarming, and that greater public education and awareness is needed to fight the epidemic and prevent the irreversible health consequences of the disease.
The Learning Center for Diabetes at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital (EMH) is hosting its annual "Diabetes Expo Health and Wellness Fair" on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Elmhurst Memorial Center for Health (1200 S. York Road, Elmhurst). This event features practical information on prevention and management, as well as product displays and lectures. There will also be free screenings available including blood glucose, blood pressure, height/weight/BMI, diabetic eye screening and foot exams.
"This event is beneficial not only for people with diabetes, but also for families, caregivers and others who may be at risk for developing diabetes," said Linda Vogt, registered nurse coordinator of the EMH Diabetes Learning Center. "It is an excellent opportunity for anyone in the community to learn more about the disease, correct misconceptions and ask questions."
Registration for the Expo is suggested. To register, or for more information, please call CareMatch at 630-782-7878.
The Learning Center for Diabetes at EMH provides both patients and their family members with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain good health and to minimize the complications that may develop from the disease. The Center, which is certified by the American Diabetes Association, helps people control their diabetes rather than allowing their diabetes to control them. The Center offers outpatient classes, individual counseling, insulin pump services, support groups and community education programs for people living with diabetes. For more information about the Learning Center for Diabetes, please call 630-993-5108 or visit the Web site at ww.emhc.org.