Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs when the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. This happens either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin — a hormone that helps glucose enter cells for energy — or because the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin. There are two main types: Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, and Type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to lifestyle factors and insulin resistance. Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve problems, and vision loss. Management typically involves lifestyle changes, blood sugar monitoring, medication, and sometimes insulin therapy.
Maine Resources
Maine Diabetes Prevention & Control Program - Dedicates its resources to promote excellence in diabetes care, increase access to care, and support efforts to enhance a more efficient and effective healthcare system for the people in Maine.
Rethink Diabetes Maine - An initiative designed to help Mainers find diabetes prevention and education information and classes. It offers resources such as risk assessments and educational materials to encourage proactive health management among individuals at risk for or living with diabetes.
MaineGeneral Diabetes & Nutrition Care - Provides specialized diabetes and nutrition care through individual consultations and educational programs. Their dietitians lead the Diabetes Self-Management Training Program's nutrition class, offering personalized guidance to help patients meet their diabetes management goals.
MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital Diabetes & Nutrition Care - Offers expert clinical nutrition counseling services and diabetes education. The practice is recognized by the American Diabetes Association for high-quality diabetes education services, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care.
Maine Department of Education: Diabetes Management and Resource Guide - The Maine DOE provides a comprehensive Diabetes Management and Resource Guide for school health services. This guide offers guidelines on the provision of school health services and health-related activities, aiming to support students with diabetes in the educational setting.
Regional Resources
Massachusetts
Diabetes Self-Management Education & Support Program (DSME/S) - Massachusetts General Hospital offers an outpatient DSME/S program designed for adults, children, and seniors with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The program includes individual counseling and group classes covering topics such as nutrition, exercise, medication management, and psychological adjustment. Support groups are also available monthly, providing a welcoming environment for patients and their families.
UMass Diabetes Center of Excellence (DCOE) - Located in Worcester, the UMass DCOE is a leading research and clinical care center focusing on diabetes. The center conducts cutting-edge research, including studies on wearable technology to prevent hypoglycemia and investigations into the autoimmune processes of type 1 diabetes. The DCOE also provides comprehensive care for patients, integrating research findings into clinical practice.
Barton Center for Diabetes Education - Dedicated to educating children with insulin-dependent diabetes and their families. Through year-round programs, including camps and educational sessions, the center aims to improve the lives of children with diabetes by providing education, recreation, and support.
Whittier Street Health Center - Based in Boston, Whittier Street Health Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center offering primary care and support services, including diabetes management, to low-income and diverse populations. The center focuses on addressing social determinants of health and provides comprehensive care to communities in Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, and the South End.
Connecticut
Connecticut Diabetes Self-Management Education Services - Offers 26 ADA-recognized Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) centers across the state. These centers provide education on controlling blood sugars, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Connecticut-based insurance plans are required by law to cover DSME, and Medicare Part B also provides coverage. Additionally, free community-based diabetes education programs are available at various venues, including senior centers and community centers.
LIVE WELL: Chronic Disease and Diabetes Self-Management Programs - Offers community-based classes that enhance diabetes-specific education. These classes are designed to complement DSME and provide additional support for individuals managing diabetes and other chronic diseases. For more information, individuals can visit www.cthealthyliving.org or call 1-800-994-9422.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire Diabetes Education and Support Program - Provides a Diabetes Education and Support Program that emphasizes the importance of Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES). Participation in DSMES is linked to improved health behaviors and diabetes-related outcomes, including better control of hemoglobin A1c levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol. The program also offers resources on physical activity, healthy eating, and stress management.
Vermont
Vermont Department of Health - Free Tools & Resources for Diabetes - Provides a variety of free tools and resources to help individuals manage diabetes. These include fact sheets on topics like carb counting, the DASH diet plan, physical activity, and sugar substitutes. The department also offers a detailed booklet titled "Learning to Live Well with Diabetes," which provides comprehensive guidance on meeting blood sugar goals and preventing health problems.
Rhode Island
Breakthrough T1D Greater New England Chapter - Serving the New England region, including Rhode Island, the Breakthrough T1D Greater New England Chapter offers support groups and resources for individuals and families affected by type 1 diabetes. These volunteer-hosted meetings provide information, support, and opportunities to share diabetes management tips. Events are held both in-person and virtually, catering to various communities across the region.
National Resources
National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) - The CDC’s initiative aimed at preventing type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes and health education. It provides evidence-based programs across the country, offering workshops and resources on healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management. The National DPP also maintains an online registry of recognized programs that individuals can join locally or virtually to reduce their risk of developing diabetes.
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) - A leading global organization focused exclusively on type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. The foundation funds life-changing research aimed at curing, treating, and preventing T1D. Beyond research, JDRF provides educational resources, peer support networks, and advocacy for affordable insulin and healthcare access. They also host events like JDRF One Walk and TypeOneNation Summits to connect families and individuals affected by T1D.
DiabetesSisters - Provides peer support and education specifically for women living with all types of diabetes and prediabetes. They offer a unique community through in-person and virtual meetups, called PODS (Part of DiabetesSisters) Meetups, webinars, conferences, and online forums. The group focuses on fostering connections and addressing health issues unique to women, such as pregnancy with diabetes and menopause management.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) - Conducts and supports research into diabetes, digestive diseases, kidney disease, and other related health conditions. The institute provides extensive resources for patients and healthcare providers, including research findings, clinical trials, educational materials, and treatment guidelines. NIDDK also offers information campaigns like the “Small Steps. Big Rewards.” program to encourage healthy lifestyle changes.