Residents of New Orleans can now apply for free 12-month prevention classes aimed at reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, with sessions beginning in October across three neighbourhoods, as city officials address high prediabetes rates.
New Orleans residents who want to lower their risk of type 2 diabetes can now apply for free prevention classes being offered in three neighbourhoods across the city. The New Orleans Health Department says the 12-month programme is open to adults with prediabetes or other risk factors, and is intended to help participants make practical lifestyle changes before the condition progresses.
The first cohort is due to begin at noon on 19 October at Joe Brown Recreation Centre in New Orleans East, where the department says five places remain. Sessions in Central City, at the Edna Pilsbury Health Centre, and in Algiers, at Morris Jeff Recreation Centre, will start once each group reaches at least 10 participants. The city is accepting applications on a rolling basis, and healthcare provider referrals are also being taken.
According to the health department, the programme consists of 22 in-person classes led by certified lifestyle coaches. It covers food choices, physical activity, weight management, stress reduction and the kind of habit-building that can be maintained over time. The structure is gradual: weekly meetings at the start, then fortnightly, then monthly sessions towards the end of the year.
The initiative comes as New Orleans officials estimate that 144,862 adults in the city have prediabetes, with more than 80% unaware of it. Medical experts note that prediabetes often has no obvious symptoms, which is why testing matters. The city says the programme is aimed at people who have been told they have prediabetes, have an A1C reading between 5.7% and 6.4%, or simply want support in making lasting changes. Interested residents can apply online, call the department or visit City Hall for more information.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
