How NYC is trying to prevent diabetes

NEW YORK, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- The New York health officials say they are working to address diabetes and obesity among residents through a variety of initiatives.

"Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death in New York City and it contributes to other leading causes of death," Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley said in a statement. "The consequences of uncontrolled diabetes are devastating, and can result in heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage and amputations. New Yorkers at risk of diabetes should get screened for the disease. And people living with diabetes can work with their doctors to keep it under control."

Key initiatives in the past year include requiring chain restaurants to post calorie counts, maintaining a citywide registry of blood sugar readings to help physicians improve diabetes care and expanding access to fresh fruits and vegetables in underserved neighborhoods.

For those wanting to prevent diabetes, city health officials advise to:

-- Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages.

-- Do at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most or all days of the week.

-- Maintain a healthy weight, but even modest weight loss can help prevent diabetes.

-- Get screened regularly for obesity, blood pressure and depression.

-- Routinely monitor blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol.

-- Don't smoke.