Support Groups Help Patients Get A Grip On Diabetes

Coping with diabetes can be challenging, but medical professionals and diabetic patients say that support groups can make managing the disease easier.

Dr. Pamela Redden

Geraldine Arnold-shaw

Dr. Pamela Redden, M.D., who specializes in internal medicine at Huron Hospital in Cleveland, said support groups offer psychological support and help educate patients on leading healthful lifestyles, such as proper nutrition and exercise.

Geraldine Arnold-Shaw of Shaker Heights, OH, found out she had diabetes in 1999. She joined a support group at Huron Hospital that same year.

“We share information and discuss different problems,” says 77- year-old Arnold-Shaw, who also explained that her support group encourages patients to seek regular medical exams.

Patients also learn about complications associated with diabetes, such as stroke, blindness or kidney failure.

Arnold-Shaw, who is one of nearly 3 million African-Americans age 20 and older who has diabetes, thinks more diabetics should take advantage of support groups.

“It enlightens us on everything-food, medication. It can save your life and prolong your life,” she said, adding that patients also learn how to monitor their blood glucose and learn about new diabetes products.

Support groups also help friends and family members of diabetic patients cope with the stress associated with diabetes by educating and informing them about the illness.

Although there is no cure for diabetes, Redden says it can be managed through proper medical care, diet and exercise.

Arnold-Shaw, who gets encouragement from her support group and encourages other patients, has learned to take control of her disease.

“I control it with exercise and eating the right foods-I eat lots of vegetables,” says Arnold-Shaw.

To find out about support groups in your area, call your local hospital.

For more information on diabetes, check these Web sites:

* American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org

* Centers for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov

Copyright Johnson Publishing Company Sep 5, 2005