CHI Saint Joseph Health to Host 5th Annual Diabetes and Nutrition Expo

LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 26, 2020) – Kentucky continues to be among the worst states for diabetes mortality rates, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2018, the CDC listed Kentucky as the fifth highest state for deaths as a result of diabetes, which is why CHI Saint Joseph Health works to raise awareness among community members, and is offering a free event to educate those living with diabetes and those at risk for developing diabetes.

On Saturday, March 14, CHI Saint Joseph Health will host its fifth annual Diabetes and Nutrition Expo at the Medical Office Building, located at 160 N. Eagle Creek Drive near Saint Joseph East in Lexington. The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is free to the community. Beginning at 8 a.m., the expo will offer free blood pressure screenings, foot screenings and, in partnership with the Bluegrass Lions Club, HgbA1c screenings for those at risk for developing diabetes, as well as hearing, vision and retinal screenings.

“We all know someone who is struggling with diabetes, so it is our hope that community members will take advantage of this free event or encourage friends and family members to learn more about how to live with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes and prediabetes,” said Claudia Burnett, manager, Diabetes and Nutrition Care, CHI Saint Joseph Health. “We are here to help and offer hope to those who may be struggling with this disease, to make sure they understand how they can live a full and healthy life with diabetes.”

Burnett said millions of people are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes and don’t know it. “We encourage anyone who thinks they may be at risk to come out and be screened by the Bluegrass Lion’s Club Diabetes Project,” she said.

Attendees will have access to free educational seminars and health screenings, as well as vendors, giveaways and prizes. The keynote speaker for the event will be Tami Ross, nutrition expert and author of What Do I Eat Now? and Diabetes Meals on $7 a Day – or Less.

There will also be a featured presentation on behavioral health and diabetes by Amanda Merchant, PhD, certified clinical health psychologist with Bluegrass Health Psychology. Attendees are invited to enjoy a cooking demonstration by Timothy Chrisholm-Hamilton, executive chef with Sodexo at Saint Joseph Hospital.

Those interested in attending the Diabetes and Nutrition Expo are encouraged to preregister. Registration will also be available on-site at the event, beginning at 8 a.m. Call 859.313.1254 or visit www.CHISaintJosephHealth.org/DiabetesExpo for more information or to preregister.

About CHI Saint Joseph Health
CHI Saint Joseph Health, part of Catholic Health Initiatives, is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with 135 locations in 20 counties, including hospitals, physician groups, clinics, primary care centers, specialty institutes and home health agencies. In total, the health system serves patients in 35 counties statewide. CHI Saint Joseph Health is dedicated to building healthier communities by elevating patient care through an integrated physical and behavioral health delivery system. CHI Saint Joseph Health embodies a strong mission and faith-based heritage and works through local partnerships to expand access to care in the communities it serves.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For More Information:
Mary Branham, Director, Communications
P: 859.313.2642
[email protected]