Diabetes Program

The Diabetes Program provides American Diabetes Association recognized self-management classes to adults ages 18 and over, diagnosed with pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. The diabetes team provides education classes, support groups, presentations, and develops a treatment plan to assist participants in controlling diabetes. See our community success stories of how our Diabetes Program helps people live better with Type 2 diabetes.

November is National Diabetes Month

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This November 2025, the Alameda County Diabetes Program is highlighting the importance of diabetes screening. As many as 8 in 10 Americans with high blood sugar don't know it. The screening test for diabetes is either a Fasting Blood Glucose Test or an A1c. Getting screened can help you determine whether you're at risk for diabetes and complications. Diabetes screening is recommended at least annually for all adults 35 and over, or younger people who are at risk of diabetes. 

What is Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes results from your body not producing enough insulin or your body not using the insulin properly. Type 2 diabetes develops in adults and has been found in children. You may have diabetes and not know it, as often there are no symptoms.

The Program’s Goals are to:

• prevent medical problems related to diabetes.
• improve understanding of type 2 diabetes.
• improve ability to control diabetes.

Education Classes and Support Groups

The Diabetes Class Series is a free 8-week course. Individuals who meet the eligibility requirements meet once a week for two (2) hours. Hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure, and weight measures are completed the first week and final week of class. Support materials, informational binders, and certificates are also included.

Topics discussed are:

• What is Diabetes? And Monitoring Blood Glucose
• Eating Healthier - Focus on Carbohydrates
• Eating Healthier - Focus on Heart Health, Fat, and Fiber
• Physical Activity
• Taking Medications
• Reducing Risks of Complications
• Coping with Stress and Emotions
• Behavior Change, Problem Solving, and Resources

The Diabetes Support Group meets once a month for two (2) hours in locations throughout Alameda County. Topics vary.

Program Participation and Referrals

Participants may self-enroll as long as eligibility criteria is met. See below.
Medical providers can refer patients that meet the eligibility requirements. Please complete the following referral form and fax it to the Diabetes Program at (510) 595-6486.

• Diabetes Referral Form

Patients referred to the Diabetes Program must meet the following requirements to participate in self-management classes.

• Live in Alameda County
• 18 years of age or older.
• Diagnosed with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes.
• Individuals providing care or support for those clients are welcome to accompany their clients.

DIABETES PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Nutrition Services’ Diabetes Program provides interactive American Diabetes Association-accredited classes, as well as support groups and presentations dedicated to helping people manage diabetes in Alameda County.
• In 2024-2025, Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) classes reached 121 participants of which 92% of participants improved their Hemoglobin A1c or were under 7.0%, 75% improved their blood pressure or maintained a BP under 140/90, and 62% lost weight or maintained their weight. Program growth is supported by an additional permanent Registered Dietitian and contract CDE (Certified Diabetes Educator).
• The Diabetes Program holds monthly support groups throughout the county or virtually.
• The DSME curriculum is available in English, Spanish, and now Traditional and Simplified Chinese. 
• The monthly program newsletter reaches over 635 graduates of our program. 

THE ROAD AHEAD

• The Diabetes Program is in the process of recruiting a Spanish-bilingual health educator to address a need for Spanish-language information.
• The Diabetes Program is offering presentations with Mandarin or Cantonese translation.
• Facilitators are introducing a physical activity break in each of our DSME classes and support groups.

The Diabetes Team in Action

The Nutrition Services Diabetes Program includes a team of Registered Dietitians, peer educators, nutrition assistants, and managers and directors coordinating services and classes to support Alameda County residents to live a healthy life with diabetes. The Diabetes Program also annually convenes the Diabetes Advisory Council comprised of community partners who guide our work. Meet the Nutrition Services Team.