Panel Discusses Type II Diabetes

at Health Night

ROME – A panel of healthcare professionals will discuss the complications of Type II diabetes 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at Rome Memorial Hospital’s Health Night.

The free lecture will be held in hospital’s classroom on the first floor at 1500 N. James St.  Informational booths and free screenings will be available after the discussion, including blood pressure and cardiac risk factor screenings.  Additional participants include the American Diabetes Association and various companies with information on diabetic products.

The guest speakers will include Endocrinologist Dominic Aiello, M.D., Joann Millson, FNP, CDE, a certified diabetic educator, and Jennie Chmielewski, RD, CDN, a registered dietitian at Rome Memorial Hospital.

“Type II diabetes is on the rise in our community due to an increased number of seniors and a greater prevalence of obesity and sedentary lifestyles,” said Gale Barone, BS, RN, director of education at Rome Memorial Hospital.  “It is estimated that there are more than 8,000 people in our county diagnosed with the disease, and many more who are not aware that they have a problem.”

“September’s Health Night is aimed at those who are living with the disease,” Barone said.  “We invited the panel to discuss ways diabetics can control and prevent complications associated with Type II diabetes.”

Over time, diabetes can cause changes in blood vessels or nerves that can affect many different parts of the body.  Diabetics are at higher risk for heart disease, stroke, amputation, vision problems, kidney disease, skin disorders, and gum disease.

The panel will discuss the importance of keeping diabetes under control to avoid these complications.  Additional information will be presented on essential screenings to detect early warning signs and steps to help prevent additional complications.

Health Night is a monthly lecture series, sponsored by Rome Memorial Hospital. Advance registration is not required.  Refreshments will be served. For more information, please call 338-7143.  Please take note of the earlier time for Health Night.  Because of the screenings and information booths, the lecture will start at 6:30 p.m., an hour earlier than usual.