Relevance: According to the Kentucky Department of Public Health, diabetes prevalence has doubled from 2000 to 2021 from 6.5% of adults to 13.8% of Kentucky adults. This rate is also higher than the national average (10.5%), with Kentucky exhibiting the 13^th highest mortality rate from diabetes in the U.S. Certain parts of Kentucky experience higher adult rates of diabetes. For example, Appalachian Kentucky counties exhibit a diagnosed diabetes rate of 16% compared to 13% in non-Appalachian Kentucky counties. It is estimated that over 100,000 Kentuckians have diabetes but do not know it. Further, 1 in 3 Kentucky adults have diagnosed or undiagnosed prediabetes, which increases the risk of developing diabetes within 3-5 years. This public health issue is costly for Kentuckians. In 2019, it was estimated that diagnosed diabetes alone cost Kentucky $5.2 billion in total medical costs and lost work and wages.

Response: One of the greatest challenges that exacerbate poor diabetes-related health outcomes is limited access to healthcare and health education. To address this public health and economic issue, UK Family & Consumer Sciences Extension provides the National Dining with Diabetes curriculum alongside other community and clinical organizations across Kentucky. The goal of this program is to equip participants with information about building healthy and nutritious meals through diabetes-friendly recipes. This program distributes relevant and timely information to adults with diabetes and/or family members responsible for caregiving, meal planning, and meal preparation. Local entities and healthcare networks consistently look to Extension for trusted and reliable education materials and recipes, especially in counties and communities with limited resources.

Results: Across the commonwealth, thirteen counties were able to offer the 5-session program to their clientele through a variety of media (Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Graves, Hart, Jefferson, Lee, Letcher, Magoffin, McCracken, Metcalfe, Pendleton, Scott). Of those counties, six (46%) are a part of the Appalachian region. As a result of the program, 220 individuals reported exercising continuously for 30 minutes on 3 or more days of the week. In addition, 296 individuals reported they cooked more meals at home and 228 individuals utilized portion control as one way to manage diabetes. Finally, 340 individuals feel confident they can keep their diabetes under control or help the person they care for keep their diabetes under control. 

Public Value Statement: Kentucky faces a growing diabetes crisis, with prevalence rates exceeding the national average and significant economic costs burdening communities. To combat this challenge, UK Family & Consumer Sciences Extension partners with local organizations to provide trusted education through the National Dining with Diabetes program, empowering individuals with practical skills to manage their health and improve long-term outcomes.