Free Diabetes Screening

In recognition of the American Diabetes Association’s American Diabetes Alert, the Silver Cross Diabetes Center will offer free screenings to detect diabetes on Tuesday, March 22 in the Silver Cross Hospital Francis Pavilion Lobby, 1200 Maple Rd., Joliet.  Participants are offered a Diabetes Risk Assessment and Blood Glucose Test. No fasting is required.  

The American Diabetes Alert is an annual nationwide campaign to raise awareness that diabetes is a complex, serious and increasingly common disease affecting more than 24.6 million Americans. Diabetes can also cause blindness, which is a devastating disease the Lions Clubs around the world are working to prevent. 

By partnering with Silver Cross, the area’s most comprehensive diabetes management program, the two hope to work together to prevent individuals in the community from these chronic diseases. 

“We are proud to participate with Silver Cross for such a great event highlighting our mutual concern with diabetes in the community,” said Patricia Kaveney, President of the Joliet Noon Lions.  

Diabetes is a silent disease and if left untreated can harm your eyes, heart, nerves and kidneys just by having too much sugar in the bloodstream.  The risk factors for diabetes increase with age and weight gain. 

Diabetes is more common in African-Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Pacific Islanders.  Those who are at risk have high blood pressure, a family history of diabetes or have delivered a baby weighing more than nine pounds at birth.  Most people with diabetes do not notice any symptoms. 

However, if you are constantly thirsty, urinate frequently or lose weight without trying, you should see a physician.  

“Many patients learn for the first time that they have diabetes while in the hospital,” says Patsy Harris, RN, Silver Cross Diabetes Center Program Manager. “Last year, 24% of our inpatients had a primary or secondary diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. By diagnosing diabetes early, we can help our patients manage the disease and keep them out of the hospital and have a fulfilling healthier and active lifestyle.”