Leonardtown, MD – The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently recognized MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Diabetes Prevention Program.

The program was awarded CDC Full Recognition which is reserved for “programs that have effectively delivered a quality, evidence-based program that meets all of the standards for CDC recognition,” according to a letter from the CDC.

To be recognized by the CDC, programs must:

  • Have trained lifestyle coaches who can help build participants’ skills and confidence to make lasting lifestyle changes
  • Have a diabetes prevention program coordinator who uses a CDC approved curriculum 
  • Obtain a minimum average weight loss of 5 percent during the 12 month program
  • Submit program data related to attendance, weight loss, and physical activity

The CDC also requires at least 35 percent of participants in the programs be diagnosed with pre-diabetes through blood testing (or have a history of gestational diabetes).

As part of the MedStar Diabetes Institute, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital also offers a diabetes education program recognized by the American Diabetes Association and provided by a registered nurse and a dietician trained in diabetes management.

Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Calendar for class information or call 301-475-6019.