Diabetes Prevention

If you are risk for type 2 diabetes, you can make small, measurable changes that can reduce your risk and help you live a happier, healthier life.

Diabetes Prevention Program

The Diabetes Prevention Program helps adults at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating healthier, increasing physical activity, and losing a modest amount of weight. In a safe, supportive environment, participants work together to learn strategies for making behavior changes that will improve their overall health and well-being. The program is led by a trained Lifestyle Coach in a classroom setting and consists of 26 sessions over the course of a year. Program goals include reducing body weight by 7% and increasing physical activity to 150 minutes per week.

The Research

The YMCA’s Diabete’s Prevention Program is based on the landmark Diabetes Prevention Program funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Research by the National Institutes of Health has shown that programs like the Diabetes Prevention Program can reduce the number of new cases of type 2 diabetes by 58% and 71% in adults over age 60.

The YMCA of Greater Waukesha County’s Diabetes Prevention Program has earned Full Recognition from the CDC. This honorable designation is given to National Diabetes Prevention Program providers that have effectively delivered a quality, evidence-based program that meets all of the standards for CDC recognition. Standards include weight loss, physical activity and attendance benchmarks, along with others.

Can I Participate?

To qualify for the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, you must be:

• At least 18 years old
• Overweight (BMI ≥ 25)*
• At risk for developing type 2 diabetes or have been diagnosed with prediabetes** by a healthcare provider

*Asian individual(s) BMI ≥ 22
** Individuals who have already been diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes do not qualify for this program.