Diabetes is a significant and growing health issue in Kentucky. 14% of adults are diagnosed with the disease, and an additional 14% are living with prediabetes. Approximately 486,000 Kentuckians have diabetes.  Often times this can lead to an increase in type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Diabetes has come with its financial burden on the state with direct medical costs, loss of productivity, and other related expenses.  

The Fayette County Diabetes Coalition hosted a diabetes expo at the Fayette County Extension office that provided cooking demonstrations, screening, and diabetes education. The FCS Area Agent provided a cooking demonstration with a diabetes-friendly recipe to over 50 people, ranging from women and men of all ages from the Lexington area.

Participants reported having a better understanding of what to eat, portion control, label reading, confidence in the kitchen, culturally tailored recipes, and disease management and prevention.