Spotlight on....Success

     Mike Parlak doesn’t have diabetes, and after completing Emed Health’s Diabetes Prevention Program, he’s much less likely to develop this increasingly prevalent disease.  Mike knew he was overweight and had high cholesterol, but he didn’t know he had an elevated fasting glucose level and several other risk factors that increased his chances for developing diabetes.  “My doctor has been after me to lose weight and exercise more, but I had no idea I was at such high risk for developing diabetes,” Mike said.
     Mike wasn’t feeling as energetic or as healthy as he did just 3 years ago before he started to gain weight, and he was ready to make some changes in his life.  When Mike found out a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) sponsored by the UPMC Diabetes Institute and Emed Health was beginning in his community, he decided to go to the screening and see if he qualified.  Mike was surprised to find out that he had several risk factors for diabetes and was the perfect candidate to enroll in the program (see table below).
     For 12 weeks, Mike and several other EMS, Fire and Police personnel from Fayette County and their families attended weekly educational sessions to learn about the benefits of eating well, regular exercise and how these healthy lifestyle modifications could reduce diabetes risk factors.  Research has shown that people can reduce their risks for diabetes when they receive training from exercise physiologists, nutritionists and other health care specialists.  This program was run by EMS Health Advocates, who are peers specially trained to deliver the educational material.  “The classes were really helpful – no one was judgmental and we were all very comfortable discussing our progress in the program.  The best part was getting weighed each week.  I loved to see the results of my hard work paying off,” Mike added.
     Three months later, Mike has lost weight and lowered his blood pressure, cholesterol and fasting blood sugar, significantly reducing his odds of becoming a diabetic.  He’s gained knowledge that he’ll be able to use for a lifetime to help maintain his health.  “I weigh myself everyday.  If I see my weight creeping up, I exercise a little longer and eat a little more carefully,” Mike said, adding, “A little work and education about proper eating habits and dedication to the program can change lives.  I honestly feel better, have more energy and enjoy doing all the activities that were difficult for me when I was overweight and out of shape”.

     Learn more about Diabetes Prevention through the University of Pittsburgh Diabetes Institute.