Peace Island Medical Center will present its third and final Diabetes class series at Skagit Community College San Juan Center, Tuesday, May 6, 3-5 p.m.

On the Road to Living Well with Diabetes is a free 6-week program open to all persons with pre-diabetes and diabetes and their spouse/caregiver. Taught by a dietitian/diabetes educator and nurse/diabetes educator, topics include; meal planning, medication management, glucose management, physical activity, and disease prevention.

Special guest speakers will include a pharmacist, ophthalmologist, and a physical therapist to address topics and answer questions and concerns.

Class participants receive free blood pressure, blood cholesterol and A1C screening, as well as a pedometer and resistance exercise band. Participants of the previous two classes have shown significant improvements in their A1C, a measure of their blood glucose levels. Participants also showed decreases in blood pressure and cholesterol, and reported the class gave them motivation and knowledge on how to better manage diabetes and improve their health.

The class has proven successful in helping participants achieve control of their diabetes and over the long term will prevent diabetes associated complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, eye damage and stroke, according to Kristen Rezabek, PIMC dietitian

Diabetes increases the risk for heart attack, stroke, kidney damage and nerve damage, but these complications may be prevented or minimized by making lifestyle changes in diet, physical activity and medications. On the Road to Living Well with Diabetes aims to help people get the information and feel empowered to make positive changes and improve their health. To learn more or sign up for the May 6 class, call 360-317-6250 or email jmayo2@peacehealth.org.