According to Kentuckyhealthfacts.org, Pike County has approximately 75% of adults who are overweight or obese with 24% diagnosed with diabetes.

The Pike County Cooperative Extension Service Family & Consumer Sciences Program partnered with Pikeville Medical Center and the Pike County Health Department to present Dining with Diabetes to adults with diabetes and their family members/support persons responsible for meal planning and preparation. Over 40 adults participated in the 4 lesson series with an average attendance of 35 people weekly. 

As a result of the program, 50% reported exercising for 30 minutes on 3 or more days per week. Over 95% reported cooking more meals at home and 90% utilize portion control as one way to manage diabetes.  Finally, 100% felt confident they could make a positive difference in diabetes control and care for themselves or those they care for. 

One participant shared they learned how important it was to read and compare food labels.  Also, learning portion control and what a portion looks like compared to everyday servings has been critical to their success and lowered A1c of 5.6.