[Lecanto, Fla.] — The Diabetes Empowerment Education Program returns October 3.  The free six-week class is hosted by the Florida Department of Health in Citrus County (DOH-Citrus) and Elder Options.

The class meets Mondays, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Coastal Region Library (8619 W. Crystal St.) in Crystal River.  Class dates are October 3, 17, 24, 31 and  November 7 and 14.  There is no class October 10.  Seats are limited and registration is required. 

Anyone looking to discover fresh, practical ways to manage their diabetes and live a healthier life is invited to register online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CZR9VG5.  For questions contact Kathryn DeFranco (Kathryn.Defranco@flhealth.gov) or Mark Pagan (Mark.Pagan@flhealth.gov).

Diabetes is a leading health issue in Citrus County.  According to FL Charts, Citrus County had a rate of 16.7% for adults who have ever been told they had diabetes, compared with the state rate of 11.7%.

Participants will receive tools and information to manage and take control of their health through a series of interactive sessions. The program covers the following topics:

• Diabetes risk factors
• Identification and prevention
• Medications and medical care
• Understanding how the body works
• Monitoring your body
• Mobilizing family and friends
• Meal planning
• Physical activity

The program was last offered in 2020.

For more information about DOH-Citrus, go to www.citrus.floridahealth.gov or follow us on Twitter at @FLHealthCitrus.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook,Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.