The Penobscot Nation Health Department has offered diabetes treatment and prevention services for over 18 years to its tribal community. Services have included: individual consultations, support groups, weight loss programs, multi-disciplinary diabetes clinics, cooking classes for adults and youth, fitness room staffed by a personal trainer, various exercise programs including; water aerobics, step aerobics, swimming, body pump, Zumba, tai chi, walking clubs, fun runs, and yoga.
The key diabetes-related health issues identified by our community and local leadership are obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. SDPI funding will enable the Penobscot Nation to continue and expand targeted diabetic services to its tribal community.