American Diabetes Association Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes Event in Texas Helps Local Community “Make the Link” Between Diabetes and Coronary Artery Disease

Educational campaign heightens awareness of leading cause of death in people with diabetes and encourages preventive action

HOUSTON--()--In conjunction with the Make the Link! Diabetes, Heart Disease and Stroke initiative from the American Diabetes Association and sponsored by Medtronic, a “Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes” event on Saturday, November 22nd in Houston at the Northshore Park will provide educational resources to participants about the link between diabetes and coronary artery disease (CAD).

Research shows that people with diabetes are at an increased risk for CAD and death rates are about two- to four-times higher than adults without diabetes. Caused by a buildup of fatty deposits, or plaque, in coronary arteries, CAD is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death in the U.S., killing nearly 400,000 Americans annually.

“Diabetes and CAD represent two of the most common threats to Americans’ health today. That’s why we’re making a concerted effort with Medtronic to educate participants at our event in Houston and increase awareness so people can take the action needed to lead healthier lives,” said Danielle Soria-Orozco, associate director of fundraising & special events at the Association's Houston office. “Walking is one way to lower the risk of diabetes and CAD. We strongly encourage people in Houston to gather friends, family and co-workers to walk at the event and raise funds to help change the future of diabetes. Together, we can stop diabetes, one step at a time.”

The educational resources include information on how to manage type 2 diabetes and CAD, reduce the risk for CAD, and make smart food choices. These materials will be available at the “Make the Link” table at the “Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes” event on Saturday, November 22nd in Houston at 8:00a.m. They’re also available for download at www.diabetesforecast.org/makethelink.

For more information about the “Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes” event in Houston, please visit stepout.diabetes.org/.

About Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes

Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes is the American Diabetes Association's signature fundraising walk. With strong support from the business community including sponsorship and corporate teams, this event raises over $24 million to find a cure for diabetes and to support the Association’s mission.

About the American Diabetes Association

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to Stop Diabetes® and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

Contacts

Make the Link! Diabetes, Heart Disease and Stroke initiative
Christine Feheley, 703-253-4374
cfeheley@diabetes.org

Contacts

Make the Link! Diabetes, Heart Disease and Stroke initiative
Christine Feheley, 703-253-4374
cfeheley@diabetes.org