October 29, 2025

DOH-St. Lucie Recognizes National Diabetes Awareness Month

Contact:
Jennifer Harris
Jennifer.Harris@flhealth.gov
772-785-5838

St. Lucie County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County (DOH-St. Lucie) 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.

DOH St. Lucie Diabetes Prevention Program

The DOH-St Lucie Diabetes Prevention Program is a lifestyle change initiative designed to help develop and maintain healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Through engaging sessions, participants learn, share experiences, and try new strategies to support their well-being.

The current wellness series sessions, NeuroCalm: Rewire Your Stress Response, focus on managing stress and anxiety—both of which are significant risk factors and contributors to diabetes. Participants will explore a variety of calming techniques and activities, including meditation, mindfulness practices, breathing exercises, art-based coping strategies, and mindful movement. The sessions are presented in partnership with Tykes and Teens.

Upcoming Session Dates: Wednesdays – November 5, 12, and 19, 2025 Time: 12:30 p.m.

For more information about this series or more about the DOH-St. Lucie Diabetes Prevention Program, please contact DOH-St. Lucie Health Educator Consultant Stacy Pierre, at diabetesslc@flhealth.gov

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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 the Florida Department of Health, visit FloridaHealth.gov.