Diabetes Awareness Month: Small Steps for Healthier Living
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about diabetes and the power of prevention through everyday healthy habits. At the Fulton County Y, we believe healthy living is for everyone. Small lifestyle changes, supported by community, can make a meaningful difference in reducing risk for type 2 diabetes and supporting overall well-being.
Understanding the Numbers
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar. More than 37 million Americans have diabetes, and roughly 96 million adults have prediabetes—yet about 8 out of 10 people with prediabetes don’t know they have it. Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, but it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
The good news is that type 2 diabetes is largely preventable. Research shows that modest weight loss, healthier eating, and regular physical activity can significantly reduce risk. Awareness is the first step.
Know Your Risk
The simplest action you can take this month is to learn your personal risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and American Diabetes Association (ADA) offer a free, 60-second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test. It takes less than a minute and can help you decide whether to talk with your doctor.
You can take the test at diabetes.org/risk-test.
Small Lifestyle Changes That Make a Difference
Forming healthy habits can be hard without support, but even small steps add up. Here are practical changes aligned with common healthy-living guidance:
Add more fruits and vegetables. Aim for colorful produce at meals. Fiber helps support steady blood sugar levels.
Choose lean proteins. Fish, skinless poultry, beans, and other lean options can support healthy weight management.
Prioritize whole grains. Swap refined grains for whole grains when possible for longer-lasting energy.
Move more. Build toward 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. A daily walk, group exercise class, or active time with family all count.
Drink more water. Choosing water over sugar-sweetened beverages is one of the easiest swaps for better health.
Talk with your doctor. Especially if you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight, or are over age 45.
These steps don’t require perfection—just consistency. Many people find it easier to stick with changes when they have community and encouragement around them.
The Y Is Here for Healthy Living
For Youth Development, For Healthy Living, For Social Responsibility. At the Y, we support healthy living for people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it’s group exercise, aquatics, wellness activities, or simply a welcoming place to move and connect, the Fulton County Y is a place where small steps become lasting habits.
This Diabetes Awareness Month, start with one simple action: know your risk. Then choose one small habit to build on this week. We’re glad you’re part of our community.
For more resources, visit diabetes.org or cdc.gov/diabetes. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal health advice.