November continues the fall holiday eating season and serves as Diabetes Awareness Month. To support wellness during this season, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) Essence of a Woman student organization hosted an event at the L.A. Davis, Sr. Student Union focused on raising awareness about diabetes, particularly its disproportionate impact on African American communities. The event brought together several student organizations, health experts, community leaders, and the Chair of the UAPB Department of Nursing, Dr. Brenda Jacobs, as a keynote speaker to shine a spotlight on diabetes prevention, management, and the importance of health education. UAPB students hold “Go Blue for Diabetes” kick-off event with UAPB Chair of the Department of Nursing, Dr. Brenda Jacobs (center-left) as keynote. Essence of a Woman, in collaboration with the UAPB Nursing Department, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, Sigma Beta Theta Fraternity, Inc., and the National Association of Colored Women, launched the “Go Blue for Diabetes” campaign in support of World Diabetes Day on November 14, 2024. This collective effort underscores the shared commitment to raising awareness about diabetes. Dr. Jacobs shared valuable insights on how diet is pivotal in managing diabetes. She emphasized the importance of eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables. She encouraged attendees to base meals around high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, legumes, and green leafy vegetables, and avoid saturated fats in processed foods and fatty meats.
A recommended healthy eating plan for those with diabetes, according to Dr. Jacobs, should also include: - Eating fiber-rich foods like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes
- Choosing lean proteins such as skinless poultry, fish, tofu, and nuts
- Limiting unhealthy fats such as those found in butter, cream, and fried foods
- Drinking plenty of water and limiting sugary drinks
- Eating regular meals throughout the day to manage blood sugar levels
As part of the Fall 2024 semester’s Wellness Wednesday Series, the event not only emphasized the importance of addressing health disparities, especially in minority populations, but also provided practical strategies for managing and preventing diabetes. The event featured items designed to increase understanding and provide resources on managing diabetes, empowering our community with knowledge and tools. The giveaway items included Diabetes Awareness buttons, bracelets, key chains, and brochures on topics such as: - What is Diabetes?
- Diabetes Among African Americans/Blacks in the United States
- Off to College with Diabetes
- U of A Diabetes Management Program for Employees
These materials promoted education on the importance of diabetes management, particularly in communities at higher risk, and to support individuals navigating college life with diabetes. The University of Arkansas Diabetes Management Program also provided information for faculty and staff to help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for employees living with diabetes. “We are proud to be able to provide these resources to the campus and local community,” said Shenise McGhee, UAPB Essence of a Woman Advisor. “Raising awareness about diabetes and its effects is crucial, and we hope these materials help inform and support those affected by this condition.” According to the U of A Cooperative Extension Service, diabetes is usually a lifelong (chronic) disease. People who have diabetes are not able to properly absorb food to be used as energy. This results in high levels of sugar in the blood. High blood sugar and high blood glucose mean the same thing. The two most common types of diabetes are Type 1 (where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells) and Type 2 (where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough). According to health experts, African Americans are disproportionately affected by diabetes, experiencing higher rates of diagnosis, hospitalization, and death compared to non-Hispanic white Americans. The event also underscored the importance of regular medical checkups and screenings for those living with diabetes. According to studies, it is a disease that, if left unmanaged, can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, vision loss, kidney disease, nerve damage, and even depression. This highlights the urgency and seriousness of managing diabetes. Dr. Jacobs and UAPB nursing students reminded participants that studies show that while there is no known cure for diabetes, one can effectively manage the disease with proper diet, medication, and regular monitoring. The UAPB Department of Nursing is dedicated to promoting health and wellness in the community through education, advocacy, and outreach programs. |
