Currently, 1 in 3 Canadians are living with pre-diabetes or diabetes. It is estimated that every 24 hours:
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More than 20 Canadians die of diabetes-related complications
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480 more Canadians are diagnosed with this devastating disease
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14 Canadians have a lower limb amputation
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And our health care system spends $75 million treating diabetes
Because of this Diabetes Canada has launched a framework with the goals of:
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90% of Canadians will live in an environment that reduces their risk of diabetes
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90% of Canadians will be aware of their diabetes status
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90% of Canadians with diabetes will be engaged in preventing complications
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90% of all Canadians will achieve improved health outcomes
Find out how you can help by clicking here: https://www.diabetesstrategynow.ca/about
Here at LMC, we have launched some initiatives to align with the Diabetes Canada 360 framework.
First, we’ve been using the “Personalized Diabetes Report” which includes your most recent blood work results and areas for goal setting based on the ABCDES of Diabetes.
What are the ABCDES of Diabetes?
A |
A1C targets |
A1C ≤7%This is a lab test that measures blood sugar control over 3 months. Aim for a result of 7% or less by keeping blood sugars between4-7 mmol/L fasting and 5-10 mmol/L 2 hours after a meal. |
B |
Blood Pressure targets |
This can be measured at home or at your doctor’s office.Aim for a result of 130/80 or less. |
C |
Cholesterol targets |
The ‘bad’ cholesterol is called LDL and is measured in the lab.Aim for a result of 2.0 or less. |
D |
Drugs for CVD risk reduction |
Diabetes increases your risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. You may be recommended blood pressure and cholesterol medications to protect your heart. |
E |
Exercise goals and healthy Eating |
150 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity/ week and resistance exercises 2-3 times/week.Follow a healthy eating plan. |
S |
Screening for complications |
Get checked annually for:• Eyes & Feet – See your eye doctor and foot doctor once a year.• Kidneys – A urine test called uACR measures the health of your kidneys. Aim for a result of less than 2.0. |
S |
Smoking cessation |
Make a plan today. Ask for help if needed. Speak to our Pharmacist about the Quit Smoking Program, including how to curb cravings and control nicotine withdrawal. |
S |
Self-management, stress, other barriers |
You are the most important person when it comes to managing your diabetes. Set goals for yourself. Seek support when needed. |
If you haven’t already received your personalized diabetes report, or would like an updated one, please speak to your LMC pharmacist or diabetes educator at your next appointment.
We also have partnered with Diabetes Canada to launch the Canadian Diabetes Prevention Program (CDPP). The CDPP program participants will be supported through regular interactions with a personal Health Coach, online education modules, group workshops and digital health tracking to make meaningful changes in their diet and physical activity over a 12-month period.