Yangcheon-gu Offers Free Blood Sugar Tests to Prevent Diabetes in Young Adults

Yangcheon-gu Public Health Center to Offer Free Blood Glucose Testing and Result Consultations for Residents Aged 9 to 34 from April 17 to 21

Finger-prick Blood Collection, Retesting and Diabetes Prevention Education Provided if Blood Glucose Exceeds Normal Range

Yangcheon-gu (Mayor Lee Gijae) announced that it will operate a "Free Blood Glucose Testing Week" at the public health center from April 17 to 21, targeting adolescents and young adults, to proactively respond to the rapidly increasing incidence of type 2 diabetes among younger generations due to westernized eating habits, decreased physical activity, and obesity.

According to the Korean Diabetes Association, as of 2020, approximately 6.1 million adults aged 19 and older in South Korea have diabetes, meaning 1 in 7 adults aged 19 and older and 1 in 6 adults aged 30 and older have been diagnosed with diabetes.

In particular, the incidence of type 2 diabetes, commonly seen in adults, is increasing among children and adolescents, highlighting the need for management at the local government level.

Accordingly, through this focused free blood glucose testing week for adolescents and young adults, the district plans to quickly identify and manage undiagnosed diabetes patients and young people in the prediabetic stage.

The free testing is available to residents aged 9 to 34. Those wishing to be tested should visit the Metabolic Syndrome Center on the 3rd floor of Yangcheon Public Health Center after fasting or at least two hours after a meal. Blood glucose testing will be conducted via finger-prick blood collection using disposable needles and glucose meters. If results exceed the normal range, retesting and diabetes prevention education will be provided during the follow-up consultation to aid early management. Additionally, if blood glucose levels exceed the normal range twice consecutively, guidance for medical institution visits will be offered.

All participants will receive a brochure titled "Understanding Diabetes in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults" to emphasize the importance of self-management for diabetes prevention and control.

Meanwhile, since 2015, the district has invited diabetes education specialists to conduct outreach diabetes awareness education for children, adolescents, and young adults, reaching over 1,600 students at 15 elementary, middle, and high schools, about 100 parents and childcare teachers at 9 daycare centers and kindergartens, and approximately 2,200 local residents.

Lee Gijae, Mayor of Yangcheon-gu, stated, "If diabetes is detected early and properly managed, it can be prevented and the risk of complications significantly reduced. We will strive to contribute to the health promotion of our residents through the operation of this 'Free Blood Glucose Testing Week for Adolescents and Young Adults.'"