Thomaston – January 21, 2009 – The National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (NCBDE) announced that San H. Short, RN, BSN, CDE of Upson Regional Medical Center has renewed the Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE®) status.

Short met rigorous eligibility requirements to be eligible for certification. Achieving the CDE credential demonstrates to people with diabetes that as a health care professional Short possesses distinct and specialized knowledge, thereby promoting quality of care for people with diabetes.

Diabetes is a chronic disease involving abnormalities in the body's ability to use sugar. Short, who has 30 years experience at Upson Regional, says diabetes is not a dead end, and it can be managed through diet, exercise and sometimes medication.  “Diabetes is a common, serious and costly disease, but it is controllable,” Short said.  “In many instances, it is preventable.”

Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes.  Some diabetes symptoms include: frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, unusual weight loss, increased fatigue irritability, and blurry vision.  An annual doctor’s visit is a key step in early detection of diabetes. 

“It is essential for individuals with diabetes to assume an active role in their care,” Short said.  “That can’t happen without education.” 

For more information on diabetes and tips on how to manage diabetes, attend Upson Regional’s monthly meeting, “Understanding Diabetes.”  The next meeting will be February 4, from 9 a.m. – noon in the Upson Regional Auditorium.   Call (706) 647-8111 x 1165 for more information