MONTICELLO, NY — Garnet Health is offering a free 12-month diabetes prevention program for qualified individuals. Participants can select a virtual-only group, starting May 14 and continuing on Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Or they can choose an in-person program, starting May 16 and continuing on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. p.m. at the Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library.

This scientifically proven and effective Centers for Disease Control-led National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) is a lifestyle-enhancement program that can help prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes. It is designed to teach individuals how to make better food choices and increase physical activity. It also provides helpful ways to stay motivated, manage stress and identify problems that can slow progress. Qualified participants will work together to achieve their goals, under the guidance of certified lifestyle coaches.

To be eligible for the diabetes prevention program, participants must be at least 18 years old, have a body mass index (BMI) over 23 if Asian, and over 25 for all others, and.have no previous diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. In addition, they should have either a blood test result in the prediabetes range within the past year (hemoglobin A1C: 5.7%–6.4%), fasting plasma glucose of 100–125 mg/dL, two-hour plasma glucose (after a 75-gram glucose load) of 140–199 mg/dL; or a previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes or positive screening for prediabetes based upon the CDC prediabetes screening test.

To learn more or to see if you qualify, call 845/333-2705 or visit www.garnethealth.org/preventdiabetes.