Diabetes Prevention Program

The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program gives you the skills you need and the support you deserve to make lasting healthy lifestyle changes and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program offers a variety of class times and locations in New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick Counties for your convenience. The 12-month group-based program consists of 16 one-hour, weekly sessions, followed by monthly sessions led by a trained lifestyle coach. Participants work to achieve a modest amount of weight loss while exploring how healthy eating, increasing physical activity, reducing stress, and problem solving can benefit their health. You do not have to be a Y member to participate. For more information including program fees, financial assistance, or insurance coverage feel free to contact us!

Upcoming Sessions

New sessions are added monthly (day and evening options)

Express Y

11 S. Kerr Ave. Wilmington, NC 28403

Mondays 6:45pm - 7:45pm

Beginning February 20, 2017

Mondays 12:15pm - 1:15pm

Beginning February 20, 2017

Pender EMS and Fire, Station 7

14388 Highway 210 Rocky Point, NC 28457

Wednesdays 3:30pm-4:30pm

Beginning February 22, 2017

Midtown YMCA

709 George Anderson Dr. Wilmington, NC 28412

Tuesdays 4:30-5:30pm

Beginning March 21, 2017

What is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Risk for developing type 2 diabetes may be reduced or eliminated by weight loss, healthier eating and increased physical activity.

Did You Know?

- Eating too much sugar does not cause diabetes, but being overweight is a risk factor.

- People with prediabetes may not have any symptoms

- An estimated 86 million Americans ages 20 years and older have prediabetes

- 89% of that 86 million have no idea they are at risk!

National Institutes of Health research has shown that programs like the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program reduces the number of new cases of type 2 diabetes by 58% overall and 71% in people over 60 years of age.

Do You Qualify?

To participate in the program, you must be:

- 18 years or older

- Overweight (BMI ≥ 25) and diagnosed with prediabetes via one of three blood tests or a previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes. If you don't have a blood test result, you must have a qualifying risk score.

How Much Does it Cost?

If you are a Blue Cross Blue Shield NC State Health Plan member, a one-time $25 co-pay is the only fee collected. You must register for the program here: www.diabetesfreenc.com

Other health insurance plans, such as United Healthcare and Medicaid, provide full coverage of the program. Please contact the Program Coordinator for more info.

If your insurance does NOT cover it, or you are uninsured, affordable options are available through the Y. Please contact the Program Coordinator for more info.