Phoenix YMCA, United Healthcare Take on Diabetes

PHOENIX - There's been a lot of talk about bringing down health care costs in our country -- but why not attack the problem before it becomes one?

It's usually cheaper to prevent a health problem than treat it -- and Phoenix is one of 7 cities in America trying out a new diabetes prevention program.

Gene Sellard is a diabetic who once weighed more than 230 pounds. He says if he made better choices earlier, he may have avoided diabetes altogether.

"That's the answer for me: diet and exercise," says Sellard.

The YMCA and United Healthcare are starting a program for people showing warning signs of diabetes. People will meet weekly to talk about lifestyle, eating healthy and physical activity.

"I just think it's an amazing potential for people to really take charge of their lives and stop something before it becomes irreversible. It's just an amazing opportunity," says Sarah Shimchick from the YMCA.

She says 1 in 4 Americans have what's called pre-diabetes.

Sellard's story is a warning to eat better and get active. He says he's probably in better physical condition now than at any other time in his life.

Valley of the Sun YMCA Diabetes Prevention
valleyymca.org or 602-212-6189
diabetes.org or 1-800-DIABETES (342-2383)
Free for any insured United Healthcare Member or $150 for YMCA members and $250 for non-members