Overview

Diabetes is an epidemic in the Aboriginal community, existing at 3-5 times the national rate. There is also a higher rate of diabetes complications amongst Aboriginal versus non-Aboriginal people.

Among the Aboriginal residents of East Vancouver, there is a lack of awareness of diabetes, its risk factors, signs, and symptoms. This lack of awareness is true for individuals at risk for diabetes and amongst those living with the disease. Aboriginal residents of East Vancouver are at especially high risk for developing diabetes and many barriers, such as poverty and low literacy levels, prevent individuals from reducing their risks. ADAPT exists to help people overcome these barriers and promote diabetes prevention through education, food security, and healthy lifestyle changes.

Diabetes is a costly disease, but diabetes can be prevented!

ADAPT is funded until 2009 by the off-reserve portion of the Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative, Diabetes Strategy, Health Canada. Additional funding from BC Gaming Commision was obtained this year to develop and run a Youth Peer-Leadership program and an Elder's Healing Circle. ADAPT is staffed by a full-time Program Coordinator/Dietitian and a part-time Resident Elder.