The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole)
emphasizes the importance of diabetes prevention and management during National Diabetes
Awareness Month, recognized annually in November.
There are two main types of diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, which is not preventable, the body
cannot produce enough insulin, requiring insulin treatment. In type 2 diabetes, the body makes
insulin, but the insulin does not work. Type 2 diabetes is most common; however, it can be
preventable by practicing a healthy lifestyle.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
Several lifestyle factors can help individuals prevent or manage diabetes:
• Stay active: Regular physical activity helps the body use insulin more easily. It is
recommended for adults to exercise 30 minutes per day, five days a week. Walking is
one of the easiest ways to start.
• Nutritious eating: Healthy eating plays an important role in lowering the risk for type 2
diabetes. A diet with whole grains, healthy fats, non-starchy vegetables, and reduced
sugar can help the body better regulate insulin.
• Manage stress: Adding stress-reducing activities into daily routines can help maintain
normal blood sugar levels. Getting enough sleep is key to reducing stress. Adults should
aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night.
Type 1 Diabetes Early Detection Program
This year, the Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 958, Type 1 Diabetes Early Detection
Program. The Florida Department of Health, in collaboration with school districts throughout the
state, has developed informational materials for the early detection of type 1 diabetes for
parents and guardians of students. This program promotes early detection of type 1 diabetes in
children by educating parents and guardians on risk factors, warning signs, screening, and
recommendations.
DEEP Program
DOH-Seminole offers diabetes self-care education classes to help residents control their
diabetes. The Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP) is an education curriculum
designed to help people with pre-diabetes, diabetes, relatives, and caregivers gain a better
understanding of diabetes self-care. Classes last a total of six weeks.To learn more about DEEP or to sign up for classes, please contact DOH-Seminole at 407-665-
3235 or 407-665-3026.
About the Florida Department of Health
The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to
protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state,
county, and community efforts.
Follow us on X at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about th
