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Each year, the American Diabetes Association stages a oneday event to raise awareness about the seriousness of diabetes. Alert Day is a "wake-up call" to inform the American public about the disease, its risk factors, and the associated warning signs. The American Diabetes Association encourages people to take the Diabetes Risk Test and find out if they, or their loved ones, are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
And while American Diabetes Alert Day – observed on the fourth Tuesday of every March – is important, the ongoing mission of educating the public is a duty that Wright & Filippis embraces year-round.
As the area's largest local provider of diabetic testing supplies, Wright & Filippis is proud to support any program that brings awareness to the importance of diabetes research and care.
For more information on Diabetes Alert Day, visit www.FirstToServe.com.
Alert Day FAQs
Why is Diabetes Alert Day important?
Diabetes is a serious disease that strikes nearly 24 million children and adults in the U.S. It is named the "silent killer" because nearly one-fourth of those with the disease – 5.7 million – do not know they have it. For many, diagnosis may come seven to ten years after the onset of the disease. Therefore, early diagnosis is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart diseases, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death.
Who should participate in the Diabetes Alert Day?
Everyone should be aware of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes. People who are overweight, under active (living a sedentary lifestyle), and over the age of 45 should consider themselves at risk for the disease. African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and people who have a family history of the disease are at an increased risk for type 2 diabetes.
Who is the primary target audience?
Americans with pre-diabetes
There are an estimated 57 million Americans who have pre-diabetes. Those with pre-diabetes have blood glucose levels higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Early intervention via lifestyle changes such as weight loss and increased physical activity can help delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
Americans with undiagnosed diabetes
The following segments of the population are at greater risk
for having undiagnosed diabetes:
Older Americans:
As people grow older, they are at an increased risk for developing diabetes. About half of all diabetes cases occur in people older than 45 years of age.
High risk ethnic populations:
African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders.
More Help for People with Diabetes
To enhance care for our patients with diabetes, Wright & Filippis provides a number of services and a line of products to make their lives much easier.
Diabetic Testing Supplies
We are the area's leading local provider of supplies. We offer the latest technology, we accept more insurance plans, and we coordinate your coverage to minimize your out-of-pocket costs. You can simply call our toll-free number (1-800-343-4944) to reorder, and we'll ship your supplies right to your door. You can even reorder your supplies online at your convenience at www.FirstToServe.com. Remember, by ordering your supplies from Wright & Filippis, you are supporting your neighbors and a familyowned company.
Diabetic Footcare Program
Our certified orthotic staff provides custom-molded shoes, healing boots, functional and accommodative arch supports, diabetic socks, footware evaluations, and regular follow-ups to address the unique needs of each patient. No other company can match the level of service provided through the Diabetic Footcare Program.
Diabetic Kits
We carry three different diabetic kits, one for everyday use and two for longer trips.
Sharpes Containers
We offer two different types of Sharpes Containers – one for everyday use, and a one-quart size for home use.
Glucose Tablets
These come in two different flavors, Orange and Grape. (NOTE: The editor is partial to orange...but the grape is pretty good, too!)
Alcohol Prep Pads
We have added alcohol prep pads to our product line for insulin-dependent patients who may need them.