The Bermuda Diabetes Association opened its doors to the public yesterday in a drive to help people from developing the condition.

To mark World Diabetes Prevention Day, the association provided free blood tests for the detection of prediabetes — a condition where blood glucose levels are above normal but not yet at diabetes levels.

A lunch-and-learn session outlining the ways in which lifestyle changes can prevent the disease was also held at the association’s headquarters on Princess Street.

According to Sara Bosch De Noya, the BDA’s education officer, nine out of ten prediabetes sufferers are unaware that they have the condition — but many will go on to develop type 2 diabetes within five years unless they take preventive action.

Ms Bosch De Noya said: “If it is taken on as a warning sign, it can be looked at as a valuable opportunity to make lifestyle changes and reverse the condition of prediabetes, and prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

“Several landmark studies have proven the success of lifestyle interventions that facilitate weight loss through dietary modifications and increasing physical activity in preventing type 2 diabetes.

“The goal is to lose 5 to 7 per cent of a person’s total body weight and build up to becoming regularly active for 30 minutes a day for a total of 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity.

“We were pleased with the numbers that came through the BDA Resource Centre today for free blood glucose screening, blood pressure screening and free HbA1c testing to diagnose prediabetes.

“We had over 60 people, including those that took part in the screenings and attended the lunchtime presentations.

“It is our goal to expand on similar topics for more upcoming workshops and presentations for the public.

“We invite those interested to follow us on social media on Facebook and Instagram at bermudadiabetesassociation and check our website regularly for upcoming events.”