According to the American Diabetes Association, over six million adults and children in the U.S. have diabetes and are not aware of it. Early detection is the key to preventing acute problems, and to living a normal and healthy life.

Jupiter Medical Center's Diabetes Education Center, whose Self-Management Program was recently awarded "Education Recognition" by the American Diabetes Association, is dedicated to educating people of all ages about diabetes prevention. The program is also designed to empower those who have diabetes with the self-management skills needed to successfully live with the disease.

In order to bring awareness to the community, Jupiter Medical Center's Diabetes Education Center will host "Diabetes Alert Day" on Friday, March 7, 2008, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Meeting Room One at Jupiter Medical Center. This event, which is complimentary and open to the community, will feature the following activities and screenings:

· Blood glucose and blood pressure screenings
· Foot and eye exams
· Body Mass Index (BMI) - Syndrome X evaluations
· Exhibits displaying information regarding blood glucose meters, medications, insulin pumps, community resources and more.
· 'Dealing With Diabetes Burnout' lecture featuring Russell A. Bourne, Jr., Ph.D., from 2 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. in the JMC Ahlbin Building.

For more information about Jupiter Medical Center's Diabetes Education Center or Diabetes Alert Day, please call (561) 743-5067, extension 1.