Ketchikan Indian Community recently wrapped up its second Diabetes Prevention Program class, and the nine participants lost a total of 98 pounds in about four months.
According to KIC, one participant alone lost 32 pounds. The age range for class members was 23 to 81.
The class focuses on portion control, the benefits of moderate exercise and lifestyle changes to control diabetes or prevent it from developing.
The Diabetes Prevention Program is funded through a federal Special Diabetes Program for Indians.
American Indians and Alaska Natives have the highest rate of type 2 diabetes in the nation. Since 1990, Native Americans 25 to 34 have seen a 161% increase of diabetes.
