Holiday Recipes to be Topic at Free Diabetes Meeting

HARLINGEN, TEXAS - December 10, 2004 –    “Holiday Recipe Resources” will be the topic for a free Diabetes Support Group meeting on Wed., Dec. 15, 2004 from 5 to 6 p.m. in the Woodward Conference Center at Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen, 2101 Pease Street in Harlingen.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Diabetes Education Center at Valley Baptist Medical Center - Harlingen and the American Diabetes Association.  For more information, please call 389-1119 or 888-420-7411.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON DIABETES

The Valley is considered a “high risk” area for diabetes. Diabetes is more common in Hispanics than in any other ethnic group. Mexican Americans in South Texas are nearly twice as likely to develop diabetes as Mexicans living in Mexico City.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body doesn’t produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into the energy needed for life.  Diabetes has been called a “silent disease” and many people with diabetes do not notice any symptoms. Those who notice symptoms -- such as being very thirsty, urinating often, or losing weight without trying -- should consult their physician immediately.

For more information on diabetes, please call Valley Baptist Medical Center - Harlingen at 389-1119 or toll-free at 1-888-420-7411.