CVS to hold seminars, provide information on diabetes
WOONSOCKET, R.I. To help raise awareness about diabetes, CVS/pharmacy will be educating and counseling diabetes patients on topics related to the disease, the company announced Monday.
The educational seminars will cover an array of topics, including identifying symptoms and monitoring sugar levels, and will even discuss managing medications and avoiding medication interactions and potential side effects.
In partnership with the American Diabetes Association, CVS/pharmacy has produced diabetes informational materials available in pharmacies across the country, providing information on the disease such as symptoms, treatment, glucose meter testing and more.
Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is responsible for converting sugar and starches into energy. Diabetes is typically treated by insulin injections to help simulate natural insulin cycles. At any time, diabetes sufferers can be taking 5 or 6 medications to treat their condition and side effects of the therapy.
Nearly 21 million adults and children suffer from diabetes, and an estimated 6.2 million are unaware they have the disease, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
“Our pharmacists play an active role in helping patients manage medications for chronic diseases, such as diabetes, that can require constant monitoring,” said Papatya Tankut, vice president of pharmacy professional services at CVS/pharmacy. “It’s important that patients take the time to talk with their pharmacists, let them know about over the counter medicines and other prescriptions they are taking, or advise them on any side effects they may be experiencing. Pharmacists can provide counsel on medication compliance, side effects and potential interactions for patients who can in turn work toward a treatment plan with their doctor.”
In addition, through Diabetes Awareness Month, 1,500 select CVS/pharmacy stores throughout the country will offer support for patients with diabetes through Meter Day events, which will take place in stores nationwide.