Diabetes Awareness Month: Early Detection and Diabetes Care in Holton, Kansas
38 million Americans are living with diabetes—and many don’t know it.¹ Diabetes Awareness Month is an important reminder to recognize symptoms early, seek routine screenings, and take control of long-term health. At Holton Community Hospital, we provide diabetes diagnosis, treatment, and support close to home—right here in Jackson County.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
Diabetes can develop gradually, especially type 2 diabetes. Many symptoms are easy to overlook at first.² Look for:
• Increased thirst or hunger
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue or irritability
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
• Sudden weight changes
If you experience one or more symptoms, we encourage you to speak with a provider about a simple blood glucose screening.
Who Is at Higher Risk for Diabetes?
According to the CDC, 98 million U.S. adults have prediabetes, and most do not know it.¹ Your risk increases if you:
• Are age 45 or older
• Have a family history of diabetes
• Live with excess weight
• Have high cholesterol or blood pressure
• Are physically inactive
• Have had gestational diabetes³
Early detection helps prevent serious complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Know Your Diabetes A-B-C’s
Managing diabetes successfully means tracking key numbers:
✅ A1C – Lowering A1C can help prevent complications like nerve damage, eye problems, and kidney disease.
✅ Blood Pressure – High blood pressure increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
✅ Cholesterol⁴ – Managing cholesterol reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Healthy Habits Start Small
Small changes make a big impact over time. Start with:
• Nutritious meals
• Physical activity you enjoy
• Consistent sleep habits
• Tobacco cessation
• Routine check-ins with your care team
If medication is part of your plan, staying consistent is essential.
You Have a Care Team Behind You
Diabetes care is a partnership. Cheryl Yingst, RN, leads personalized diabetes education at Holton Community Hospital. She helps patients understand glucose monitoring, lifestyle changes, and medication management—so you feel confident every step of the way.
If cost is a concern, our Social Services team can help connect you with assistance programs.
Social Services: 785-364-9659
Learn more at: Here
785-364-9680
Support for Your Mental Well-Being
Diabetes doesn’t just affect physical health. Many patients feel stressed or overwhelmed by self-care demands. Support is available, including:
• In-person counseling
• Telehealth mental health appointments
• Guidance from trained medical professionals
Behavioral Health: 785-364-2126
holtonhospital.com
Take Control of Your Health Today
Screening and early intervention can prevent or delay complications. Don’t wait—if you have risk factors or symptoms, talk to one of our providers today.
Schedule an appointment today at one of our Family Medicine Clinics
Learn more about our Family Medicine team: Here.
Holton | Hoyt | Wetmore
Holton Clinic: 785-364-2126
Hoyt Clinic: 785-986-6630
Wetmore Clinic: 785-866-4775
Family Medicine providers: https://holtonhospital.com/family-medicine/
📍 Holton | Hoyt | Wetmore
Your diabetes care starts here—with Personalized Care, Hometown Heart.
Sources
CDC. National Diabetes Statistics Report 2024: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
CDC. Symptoms of Diabetes: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/symptoms.html
NIDDK. Risk Factors for Diabetes: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
American Diabetes Association. Know Your ABCs: https://diabetes.org/healthy-living
