Some 29 million Americans suffer from diabetes, a disease that causes glucose levels to rise in the bloodstream. If left untreated, diabetes can result in serious health problems such as blindness, heart disease and kidney disease. It’s the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S., and residents in Alachua County are 41% more likely to die of diabetes than anywhere else in the state—the odds are even worse if you’re African-American.

There’s no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed through specific diets, exercise and medication.

Living with diabetes isn’t easy, but the University of Florida IFAS Extension has learning materials and programs that can help people take charge of their diabetes and live long, healthy lives. It’s just one way that UF/IFAS Extension is helping people in Alachua County and throughout Florida to find the best solutions to improve their quality of life.

This UF/IFAS video features one Alachua County resident’s experience in taking charge of her diabetes.

UF/IFAS Extension Agent Nancy Gal, standing, conducts a “Take Charge of Your Diabetes” class. UF/IFAS Photo by Marisol Amador