Every November, South Arkansas Regional Hospital (SARH) joins organizations nationwide to raise awareness about diabetes, a condition that affects more than 38 million Americans. National Diabetes Month is a time to highlight the importance of prevention, early detection, and daily management, as well as to encourage small but powerful lifestyle changes that protect long-term health.
At SARH, our mission is to provide education, screenings, and support so every patient in South Arkansas can take control of their health and reduce their risk for diabetes-related complications.
Why Diabetes Awareness Still Matters
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the United States, and its impact continues to grow. Many people have prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis, without even knowing it.
According to the CDC, 1 in 3 American adults has prediabetes, and most are unaware of their condition. Without intervention, many of these individuals will develop type 2 diabetes within five years.
The good news: with proper education, early screening, and sustainable lifestyle changes, type 2 diabetes can often be delayed or prevented entirely.
Understanding the Types of Diabetes
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. Usually diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
- Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, often linked to genetics, inactivity, and diet. The body becomes resistant to insulin, causing elevated blood sugar levels.
- Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy and can increase the mother’s risk of type 2 diabetes later in life.
How to Reduce Your Risk
If you’re at risk or living with prediabetes, small steps can make a big difference:
1. Get screened.
Have your blood sugar and A1C screenings done through your primary care provider. Talk with your provider about your risk factors and how often you should be tested.
2. Move more.
Regular physical activity, such as walking, biking, or swimming, helps your body use insulin more effectively. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
3. Eat balanced meals.
Focus on whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and foods high in fiber. Limit processed foods and added sugars to help stabilize blood glucose.
4. Manage stress.
Chronic stress can elevate blood sugar and make it harder to stick to healthy habits. Try mindfulness, deep breathing, or physical activity to manage stress.
5. Stay consistent.
Healthy changes don’t have to be drastic. Small, consistent improvements over time, like swapping sugary drinks for water or walking 10 minutes after meals, can lead to lasting health benefits.
SARH’s Commitment to Diabetes Prevention and Care
South Arkansas Regional Hospital is dedicated to improving community health by promoting education, prevention, and compassionate management of diabetes. Our providers work closely with patients to create personalized plans for diet, exercise, medication management, and long-term monitoring.
By bringing these services closer to home, SARH helps reduce barriers to care for families throughout southern Arkansas.
What You Can Do This National Diabetes Month
- Schedule your screening: Call your primary care provider to discuss your risk factors and schedule an appointment.
- Learn your numbers: Ask about your fasting glucose and A1C results to understand where you stand.
- Join local programs: Participate in wellness events, walking groups, or nutrition classes.
- Share what you learn: Educate family and friends about diabetes prevention; awareness saves lives.
Together Toward a Healthier South Arkansas
National Diabetes Month is more than a reminder, it’s an opportunity to take action. Whether through regular checkups, healthier meals, or more movement in your day, you can make changes that protect your health for years to come.
At South Arkansas Regional Hospital, we’re here to support you every step of the way with education, preventive care, and a team dedicated to helping you live your healthiest life.