San Antonio Addresses Alarming Rise in Youth Diabetes Rates with Community Health Fair

San Antonio Faces Rising Diabetes Rates Among Youth

San Antonio is facing a serious health challenge with diabetes, and the latest data shows this problem is particularly concerning for our younger generations. This weekend, Metro Health is stepping up to help local families with some free resources that could make a real difference.

Diabetes Impact in Our Community

According to health officials, the numbers in San Antonio are alarming. Diabetes is currently the 7th leading cause of death in the city, with one in every nine residents reporting a diabetes diagnosis. This trend is worrying, especially as it seems that more and more young people, specifically children aged 10 to 17, are developing type 2 diabetes.

“We’re seeing an increase in type 2 diabetes within our community,” said a representative from Metro Health. This ongoing issue means that we must pay close attention to our local health trends and take action before they worsen. Diabetes can lead to severe health consequences, including amputations, blindness, and nerve damage, and these are very real threats that many in our community are facing.

Roadblocks in Diabetes Awareness

So why is this happening? A combination of factors like a lack of knowledge and inadequate education about diabetes plays a significant role. Residents are not always aware of the resources available to them or how to manage their health effectively, which contributes to the rising numbers. To combat this, Metro Health has been active in providing workshops, especially in areas with high diabetes rates and hospitalizations.

“Our program is focused on health education across Bexar County,” the official explained, highlighting their commitment to raising awareness and providing the community with the tools they need to combat diabetes.

Insulin Assistance Program

In a fantastic collaboration, Metro Health has teamed up with local grocery giant H-E-B to launch an Insulin Assistance Program. This initiative allows individuals to walk into any one of 19 participating H-E-B pharmacies and receive up to $100 off their insulin prescription costs. “We’ve made the program as accessible as possible,” the representative stated. “There are no barriers and no income verifications required. People simply have to say they need assistance, and they can receive it.”

Get Involved this November

November is recognized as Diabetes Awareness Month, and to mark the occasion, Metro Health is hosting its 4th annual Diabetes Health Fair this Saturday at Palo Alto College from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event promises to be a great opportunity for the community to learn, connect, and engage with various health resources.

Not only will attendees be able to gather valuable information, but they can also take advantage of offers like $10 of free fresh produce, COVID-19 and flu vaccines, and STI testing, depending on age and insurance coverage. Oh, and don’t miss out on the chance to grab a free turkey while supplies last!

Join Us in the Fight Against Diabetes

With over 20 vendors scheduled to participate, the health fair will showcase a variety of resources and programs designed to help individuals prevent, delay, or manage diabetes. Getting informed is the first step, and so much is being done in our community to support those affected by this disease.

Let’s come together, San Antonio! Join the event this weekend to learn how you can take control of your health and maybe even leave with some free goodies. It’s a perfect opportunity to get everyone involved in this critical cause.