Senior Voice -

November shines a spotlight on a growing health concern: diabetes. As we delve deeper into this awareness month, it’s imperative that we arm ourselves with knowledge and take proactive steps toward ensuring better health outcomes for ourselves and our community.

What is diabetes and pre-diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to properly utilize or produce insulin, a hormone essential for converting sugar into energy. Without this process, sugar accumulates in the blood, leading to various health complications. Pre-diabetes, on the other hand, is a condition that precedes diabetes. It means that your blood sugar level is higher than normal but not high enough yet to be classified as type 2 diabetes. Catching and addressing pre-diabetes early can prevent it from escalating to full-blown diabetes.

Symptoms and screenings 

Common symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurry vision, and slow-healing sores. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s crucial to get tested. At Alaska Health Fair events, the A1C screen, priced at $25, provides information on your average blood sugar over the past few months, indicating your risk for diabetes or glucose-related issues. See the full range of tests and their costs on our website: http://www.alaskahealthfair.org.

Prevention strategies 

The best defense against diabetes is a good offense. This includes:

Maintaining a balanced diet.

Regular physical activity.

Monitoring blood sugar levels.

Regular health screenings.

Alaska Health Fair and State of Alaska partnership project 

The collaboration between Alaska Health Fair, Inc. and the State of Alaska Dept. of Health continues this fall. If you suspect you might be at risk of diabetes or pre-diabetes, participate in our self-assessment survey during our health fairs. If undiagnosed and found at risk, you qualify for a free A1C test, available to those 18 and older. We’re offering a free A1C test for eligible Alaskans to empower them with vital information about their health. Find out more about this partnership and the resources offered by visiting the article at https://bit.ly/3FmRfu3.

We encourage every Alaskan to take a proactive stance on their health. Visit our health fairs in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau and many other communities. View our event schedule and blood test pricing at www.alaskahealthfair.org.

Your health is not only an individual treasure but also a communal one. When we share information, resources and support, we create a ripple effect of well-being. Together, let’s make diabetes awareness not just a monthly endeavor but a lifelong commitment.

November health fairs

The health fair season is winding down and the last chance before our winter break to take advantage of the affordable comprehensive blood tests offered at all our health fairs. Alaska Health Fair health fairs will resume in February. As always, you can schedule your appointment online and view the most current event lineup on our front page at www.alaskahealthfair.org. Walk-ins are always welcomed at our events.

Nov. 3, Kodiak - Community Health Fair at Hope Community Resources Rec. Center, 917 Mill Bay Rd., 8 a.m. to noon.

Nov. 4, Fairbanks - University Park Community Health Fair, 554 Loftus Rd., 8 a.m. to noon. Flu and Covid immunizations will be available.

Nov. 7, Fairbanks - Alaska Health Fair Fairbanks office draw, 725 26th Ave., Suite 201, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Nov. 7, Anchorage - Anchorage Community Health Fair, 570 W 53rd Ave., 8 a.m. to noon. Flu and Covid Immunizations will be available.

Nov. 14, Fairbanks - Alaska Health Fair Fairbanks office draw, 725 26th Ave., Suite 201, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Nov. 18, Anchorage - Community Health Fair on O’Malley, 1801 O’Malley Rd., 8 a.m. to noon. Flu and Covid Immunizations will be available.

Nov. 18, Fairbanks - Fairbanks Community Health Fair, 725 26th Ave., Suite 201, 8 a.m. to noon.

Nov. 18, Talkeetna - Talkeetna Community Health Fair, Upper Susitna Senior Center and Community Center, 16463 E. Helena Ave., Talkeetna, 8 a.m. to noon.

If you need assistance understanding your blood test results, call our toll-free voicemail box at 1-833-800-1292. A Health Educator & RN will return your call and address your questions. Remember, blood testing is an invaluable tool, but only your healthcare provider can provide a comprehensive assessment of your health.

Alaska Health Fair, Inc. has been dedicated to delivering health fairs and providing affordable blood tests statewide since 1980.