Diabetes Education

There are three main types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children and adolescents. It occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that controls the amount of glucose in the blood.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body does not effectively use the insulin that is produced.

A third type of diabetes, gestational diabetes, is a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy. It affects approximately 2 to 4 per cent of all pregnancies (in the non-Aboriginal population) and involves an increased risk of developing diabetes for both mother and child.

Prediabetes refers to a condition where a person’s blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.

A blood sugar screening tells you if you are at risk for developing diabetes. It is a simple test that only takes a few seconds. We offer blood sugar screening clinics at pharmacies, businesses and community events, at your workplace or community group meeting. Just contact us to arrange a visit.

The Diabetes Education Centre (DEC) is staffed by diabetes educators, who are registered nurses and dietitians. They can answer your questions about monitoring blood sugar levels, food choices, exercise, medications and lifestyle.

Contact us to sign up for classes to:

• Meet others with diabetes
• Share knowledge
• Get answers to your questions
• Discuss topics such as label reading, carbohydrate counting, and weight control

Family and friends are welcome to attend and healthy snacks are provided.

Events Calendar:

SMGH Diabetes Event Calendar – July to December 2024

Walking Group: January – July 2024 Schedule

To sign up for classes or events call MHA Diabetes Education at (519) 246-5902 or email diabeteseducationcentre@mha.tvh.ca.