The CDC-Recognized Curriculum is Proven to Significantly Cut the Risk of Diabetes
PORTLAND, Oregon (April 24, 2018) — National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) announced today the launch of the NUNM Diabetes Prevention Program, a 12-month program recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). NUNM is working in partnership with the CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program to bring this evidence-based, affordable and results-oriented program to the Portland, Oregon area. The federal agency’s high-quality program standards and curriculum provide a framework for diabetes prevention efforts that are uniquely aligned with NUNM’s natural medicine philosophy and clinical education. The low-cost program kicks off May 15 at NUNM’s Helfgott Research Institute.
What is NUNM Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)?
The NUNM Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) provides 22 sessions of behavioral and nutritional counseling in a group setting, which is developed specifically to prevent type 2 diabetes. The program is designed for those who have prediabetes or are at risk for type 2 diabetes. The year-long program is focused on long-term changes in dietary choices, movement and stress management, and is developed to help produce lasting results for participants.
NUNM’s DPP is taught by licensed naturopathic physician and NUNM faculty member, WendyLeigh White, ND, MS
NUNM’s DPP is taught by licensed naturopathic physician and NUNM faculty member, WendyLeigh White, ND, MS. Dr. White has a private practice in SE Portland and was the host of a public radio talk show for two years in Connecticut, “Tune in to Your Body.”
DPP is a nationally proven program to reduce the risk of the onset of diabetes by helping participants make long-term lifestyle changes
According to the CDC, the DPP is a nationally proven program to reduce the risk of the onset of diabetes by helping participants make long-term lifestyle changes: “If you have prediabetes, getting type 2 diabetes doesn’t have to be a sure thing. In fact, prediabetes can often be reversed.[1]” The supportive group program encourages participants to take small steps in building confidence over time to maintain individualized nutritional and exercise goals.
“The CDC reports that more than 84 million Americans have prediabetes, that’s one in three adults!”
In discussing the program, White said, “The statistics related to diabetes just keep getting worse. The CDC reports that more than 84 million Americans have prediabetes, that’s one in three adults! And of those, nine out of 10 may not even be aware of it and they can develop type 2 diabetes in five years.[2]”
For those who are unsure of their risk factor for developing diabetes, she notes that the American Diabetes Association provides a simple online test.
Doctors are seeing an increase in patients with diabetes
White adds that doctors are seeing an increase in patients with diabetes. “These are sobering statistics for every practicing physician. Being diagnosed with diabetes can be devastating to patients, because it’s often a life-threatening disease. It’s also a significant risk factor for stroke, heart disease and kidney disease—but, at the same time, diabetes is preventable.”
Curriculum has been proven to help lower the risks of heart attack and stroke, and can improve health and well-being
White noted that the curriculum she teaches has been proven to help lower the risks of heart attack and stroke, and can improve health and well-being. “The CDC data show that prediabetics who engage in a structured lifestyle change program like NUNM’s DPP can cut their risk of developing diabetes by 58%,” White noted. “Those results are super encouraging.”
Class sessions covered by most insurance programs
The class sessions are covered by most insurance programs. For patients without insurance, a time-of-service discount will be applied and each class costs $25. The classes will be held at NUNM’s Helfgott Research Institute, which is located at 2220 SW First Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97201.
Visit the Diabetes Prevention Program at NUNM to learn more about the program or register.
ABOUT NUNM
Founded in 1956, National University of Natural Medicine is the oldest accredited naturopathic medical school in North America and a leading educational authority in natural medicine education and research. NUNM offers doctoral, master’s and bachelor’s degree programs through its College of Naturopathic Medicine; College of Classical Chinese Medicine; School of Graduate Studies; and School of Undergraduate Studies. NUNM’s Institutes offer a wide range of stimulating community education classes for healthcare professionals and the general public. NUNM Health Centers, the SIBO Center for Digestive Health, and NUNM’s affiliated Portland metro community clinics provide clinical training to its students while also delivering healthcare services to many thousands of patients each year.
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