School of Pharmacy student Jamal Sims visits with Cheryl from Highland at SIUE’s 2017 annual Free Diabetes Education Program. (Photo courtesy of SIUE)

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy, in collaboration with Alton Memorial Hospital, BJC HealthCare, is hosting the 12th annual Free Diabetes Education Program at SIUE’s Morris University Center from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10.

The annual free program provides information and features topics related to both Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes. Participants have the opportunity to attend speaker sessions, a vendor fair, receive free screenings and a free lunch, and speak directly with healthcare professionals.

Session topics include:

A Doctor’s Perspective on Selecting Diabetes Therapies

Carbs: What, When, and How Much?

Diabetes Resources and Support

Heart Health and the Diabetes Connection

Education is instrumental in curbing the life-threatening results of unmanaged diabetes. Through education, individuals are equipped with the tools necessary to potentially mitigate and prevent the complications associated with the disease, which include heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, amputation, severe nerve damage and premature death.

More than 16 community vendors will be present to provide insight to patients and caregivers on how they can assist with the daily management of diabetes.

Free lunch is provided, so reservations are encouraged to obtain an appropriate head count. Registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 2. To register for the program or for more information, call (618) 650-5164 or email jekoehn@siue.edu.

— SIUE, Alton hospital hosting free diabetes program —