Situation
Approximately 500,000 people have diabetes in South Carolina, or one in seven adults, which increases a person’s risk for cardiovascular complications. Around 10,000 South Carolinians died from heart disease in 2017, making it the second leading cause of death for the state. Therefore, chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease are persistent issues in both urban and rural communities of South Carolina.
Response
In response to these health issues affecting urban and rural communities, the Rural Health and Nutrition Team delivers a series of webinars titled Know Diabetes by Heart (KDBH) in collaboration with the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association. The purpose of these virtual webinars is to raise awareness and understanding of the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Through these webinars, we positively empower people across the state of South Carolina to better manage their risk for cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Outcomes
KDBH program participants from January 2021-June 2021 have increased their knowledge related to diabetes risks. For example, a previous Health Extension for Diabetes program participant was referred to KDBH and subsequently joined the Hypertension Management Program. Through this participant’s involvement in health education programs, he maintains physical activity goals, has successfully lost weight (5lbs), and has lowered his blood pressure. By making these healthy lifestyle changes, he can reduce his risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease complications.
Melissa Bales, Health Extension Agent Growing Health is entering year 2! Growing Health is a program that was developed by […]
Ellie Lane, Statewide Rural Health and Nutrition Extension Agent The Rural Health and Nutrition Team’s free health programs are expanding! […]
Over the last few years, Health Extension for Diabetes has grown. We are so excited to have in-person classes offered […]
