More than three-fourths of West Virginians suffering from diabetes also have two or more chronic conditions, making educational opportunities on prevention and management, like West Virginia Diabetes Symposium and Workshop: Bridging the Gap with Education, more important than ever.

The symposium takes place Oct. 17-19 at Embassy Suites in Charleston and is sponsored by the West Virginia University Extension Service and the West Virginia Diabetes Prevention and Control Program.

With nearly 12 percent of the state’s population having a diagnosis of diabetes, WVU Extension’s Diabetes Expert Cindy Fitch says the need for education and training in management is crucial.

“This isn’t a problem that’s going to solve itself,” said Fitch, who serves as the director of WVU Extension’s families and health programming. “We know that conditions such as hypertension, kidney disease, and oral health are directly related to diabetes, but more importantly, we know that the best means of helping to save lives is to prevent these diseases in the first place.”

Fitch said that the Symposium, now in its 12th year, has long served as a way for the state’s healthcare professionals to strategize and discuss effective means for preventing diabetes and related diseases in their communities. The conference includes presentations and round-table discussions from nationally renowned speakers, like Andy Narva, M.D., director of the National Kidney Disease Education Program at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease.

Other hot-topic items include a presentation on managing depression in diabetes patients. Fitch said that nearly 20 percent of West Virginians with diabetes rarely, if ever, receive emotional support.

“This disease goes beyond physical problems,” she said. “We’re faced with the social implications of a condition that for so many feels insurmountable and overwhelming. And yet, through diet, exercise and education, we can provide hope and a more positive prognosis.”

Continuing education credits are available for some disciplines. For more information on this, topics, speakers and registration, visit the Diabetes Symposium website at www.dsw.ext.wvu.edu. Participants can also register at the door during the conference.

-WVU-

10/12/12

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CONTACT: Cassie Waugh, Extension Services
office: 304-293-8735; cell: 304-376-1829
Cassie.waugh@mail.wvu.edu