SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - State Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, is highlighting diabetes risks and preventative measures during Diabetes Awareness Month, observed in November.
"The Illinois Department of Public Health reports that more than 827,000 adults in Illinois have been diagnosed with diabetes and each year more than 2,700 residents die from the disease," Smiddy said. "Diabetes claims lives through heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and can even cause blindness if left untreated and it's important to know the waning signs and ways to stay healthy.
According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States are living with diabetes, and 79 million are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One in three adults could develop some form of diabetes by 2050, if the current lifestyle and nutrition habits continue.
To combat the challenges facing the growing number of people with diabetes, Smiddy sponsored House Bill 1514, which would create a three-year diabetes prevention pilot program in Rock Island County through a partnership with local nonprofits and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS). If the bill becomes law, HFS will chooses a provider and that nonprofit will receive Medicaid reimbursement for their effort to prevent diabetes in the community.
"This pilot program would be responsible for working with community groups and area health departments to assist the community in prevention and best practices for diabetes." Smiddy said. "Getting regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a healthy diet, can help save lives, and it is crucial that we understand that the healthy lifestyle choices we make can prevent or control diabetes."
For more information, please contact Smiddy's constituent service office at (309)-848-9098.
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