Helping You Prevent Diabetes

Diabetes Prevention Program

Prevent diabetes before it takes hold with the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program. Understand how how healthy eating, physical activity and behavior changes can help reduce your risk for diabetes.

In the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program, a trained Lifestyle Coach will introduce topics in a supportive, small group environment and encourage participants as they explore how healthy eating, physical activity and behavior changes can help reduce their risk for diabetes and benefit their overall health.

The Diabetes Prevention Program is a recognized program by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The 12-month, 26-session, group-based program consists of one-hour, weekly sessions, followed by monthly sessions led by a trained Lifestyle Coach who facilitates a small group of people with similar goals.

Participants explore how healthy eating, physical activity and behavior changes can help reduce the risk for developing diabetes.

Monthly maintenance sessions help participants stay motivated and keep making progress toward their goals.

Sessions & Cost

The Diabetes Prevention Program runs for 12 months. New sessions start every month. Sessions may be virtual or in-person. 

Downtown Durham YMCA
Oct. 22, 2026 - Oct. 26, 2027
Tuesdays, 6 - 7 p.m.

Southeast Raleigh YMCA
Oct. 19, 2026 - Oct. 25, 2027
Mondays, 6 - 7 p.m.

Information Sessions

Interested in the program and want to learn more? Attend a free information session below.

Downtown Durham YMCA
Thurs., Sept. 17: 6 - 7 p.m.
Thurs., Oct. 15, 6 - 7 p.m.

Southeast Raleigh YMCA
Mon., Sept. 21: 6 - 7 p.m.
Mon., Oct. 12: 6 - 7 p.m.

RSVP for Info Sessions

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, the Diabetes Prevention Program is available at no cost for enrollment through the end of 2026, making it easier for eligible participants to take the first step toward preventing type 2 diabetes.

Program Goals

Lose 7 percent of body weight and increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week.

Healthy Eating

Smaller portions, reducing fat and discovering healthier food options can prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Increase Physical Activity

Moderate physical activity, 30 minutes a day, five days a week, helps your blood pressure and circulation and raises good cholesterol.

Losing Weight

Losing even a small amount of weight can benefit those at risk of Type 2 diabetes. 

Y Health Programs

Qualifications for Diabetes Prevention and referral forms.

Qualifications

You must be at least 18 years old, overweight (BMI>25, Asian adults, BMI>22) and at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes or have been diagnosed with prediabetes.

Diabetes Prevention Program FAQs

Credibly conceptualize quality best practices before open-source e-services. Progressively seize interactive services.

Credibly conceptualize quality best practices before open-source e-services. Progressively seize interactive services.