Public Issue

Tongan Village Tackles Diabetes

Women in the Tongan village of Longolongo are spear-heading a diabetes screening and education program in their community.

 

Women in the Tongan village of Longolongo are spear-heading a diabetes screening and education program in their community.

The women bringing members of the community together to fight diabetes are from the Relief Society (women's organization) of the local congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

During one recent activity, 32 volunteers consisting of men, women and children were educated on the CTR (Choose the Right) Healthy Foods Program. They also received information on diabetes and its effect on blood pressure, heart, limbs and eyes.

After being screened for blood sugars and blood pressure, and being weighed, participants were encouraged to develop and maintain healthy eating habits. 

CTR rings (often worn by young memers of The Churh of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) were presented as a reminder to "choose the right" when planning their diet and exercise plans.

All were invited to be rescreened in three months time to capture results.

Watch a short video about other efforts worldwide to help improve people's lives:

         

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