Kerr Drug launches Web site aimed at addressing diabetes in North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. North Carolina-based Kerr Drug is taking new measures to address the growing number of diabetes cases in the state by launching www.fightdiabetesnc.com.

Currently, diabetes ranks fifth in the state for the leading cause of mortality. Patients with diabetes and the general public can access the state’s first and only free online diabetes forum to communicate their problems, seek assistance and help others.

"Nationally, North Carolina is a top priority in the fight against diabetes," says Ron DeVizia, manager of diabetes services at Kerr Drug and clinical assistant professor at University of North Carolina’s School of Pharmacy. "This disease is reaching epidemic levels and more information about diabetes needs to be available so the community can become better educated about this serious disease."

The prevalence of diabetes in North Carolina is higher than the national median, with incidences having grown from 4.7 percent in 1994 to 8.3 percent ten years later. North Carolina currently ranks fifth among states with the highest rates of incidence.

The web site launch is part of Kerr’s ongoing campaign centered on chronic disease awareness and prevention called, Don’t Gamble With Your Health. The Web site offers useful information on products, clinical information, relevant local news and events and even information for employers.

Kerr hopes that the site fosters a sense of community and purpose directed specifically to North Carolina. Users can seek advice in the diabetes forum from an expert in diabetes or join in open discussion to anyone who wants to contribute.

"Prevention is only half the battle in the fight against diabetes," says DeVizia, who was a recipient of the American Pharmacists Association Foundation’s 2006 Incentive Grants for diabetes. "This website will help patients with diabetes receive additional education and information on important topics about the disease."