Pittsburgh American Diabetes Association Will Hold Expo

To focus attention on this major health issue, the local chapter of the American Diabetes Association is holding its annual EXPO on Saturday, November 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh. The EXPO, a Live Well Allegheny event, will feature free health screenings, cooking demonstrations and a wealth of information, fun and engaging activities for families and children.

The Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) is joining with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and other organizations to emphasize the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of prevention and management of the disease during American Diabetes Month in November.

Around 11% of Allegheny County residents have been diagnosed with diabetes. Nationally, over 29 million children and adults have diabetes and an additional 86 million are at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. Recent estimates project that as many as one in three American adults will have diabetes by 2050, unless measures are taken to reduce risk factors for the disease.

“For those who have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes, the EXPO is an invaluable way to learn more about lifestyle changes to manage or prevent the disease. Forthcoming Live Well Allegheny events will offer additional opportunities for activities or education that promote healthy living,” said Dr. Hacker.

This year’s EXPO will feature Rufus Dorsey, an actor, writer, and fitness coach who is living with diabetes, and Jennifer Antkowiak, a local celebrity whose roles include author, caregiver advocate, fitness instructor and TV news anchor.

Making a popular reappearance is Divabetics, an innovative program that combines pampering, music and games with diabetes education for women.