Diabetes affects thousands of people in South Carolina. The rising number of diabetes cases has led to serious health problems and a burden on the state's health care system. Addressing this epidemic requires teamwork and collaboration across various organizations and agencies. 

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH)'s Diabetes and Heart Disease Management Section supports the implementation and evaluation of evidence-based strategies to prevent and manage diabetes in populations with lower incomes, limited education or little or no access to care.  DPH is a key partner of Diabetes Free SC (DFSC). Together, we innovate and work to scale diabetes prevention and management initiatives.

Dr. Linda J. Bell, MD, Health Programs Branch Director and state epidemiologist at DPH, recently shared her insights at the DFSC Annual Meeting. She highlighted how the state is working to combat diabetes and improve the overall well-being of its residents and the importance of working within communities. Her key points are summarized below: 

What is the mission of DPH?

Dr. Bell: The mission of DPH is to protect, promote and improve the health and well-being of everyone in South Carolina. With many of our programs focused on specific conditions, such as diabetes, we emphasize the importance of working with various organizations and entities to achieve our goals.

How significant is diabetes as a public health issue?

Dr. Bell: Diabetes is a major public health challenge in South Carolina, with a steadily increasing prevalence leading to severe health complications and a substantial economic burden. According to the 2022 SC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance data, we've seen a 47 percent increase in adults with prediabetes over a decade. We are seeing far more type 2 diabetes in children than ever before, prolonging the time in which complications can develop. Unmanaged diabetes can affect the heart, kidneys, blood vessels and vision, causing lifelong effects. These complications can cause someone to lose the ability to work or contribute actively to society, quality of life declines and economic hardship increases. Vulnerable populations are at an even greater risk.

What strategies might help to improve diabetes outcomes?

Dr. Bell: There are several key strategies we can focus on in South Carolina:

• State Health Improvement Plan: This plan sets clear goals and objectives for improving quality of life and length of life. It focuses on priorities that will lead to reducing the state’s biggest health challenges, including diabetes through targeted approaches.
• Community Engagement and Leadership: Get support on a local level for actions that are meaningful. We can focus on small, winnable battles that meet community needs in ways people can be part of. For example, three Richland District 1 elementary schools created walking trails and integrated healthy food programs. These interventions were community-led and promoted healthy habits for families. Finding ways to engage community members and work locally makes programs relevant and realistic. Encourage action in your own community: speak to your leaders and voice what matters to you.
• Prevention: If we can prevent or reduce the risk of diabetes, especially in children, we can avoid the more serious complications of diabetes. Advocating for access to healthy foods, physical activity, early adoption of healthy behaviors, and increased access to health care services could help reduce treatment needed for diabetes.
• Education and Targeted Information: DPH stresses the need for accurate information dissemination and education. DPH has a lot of data and statistics for obesity, diabetes and the other health problems in our state. Making that information meaningful for someone to act is what matters. Ask yourself, “Who needs to know about the problem and how can you make your voice heard?”

How do you suggest connecting expertise with lived experience?

Dr. Bell: Connecting medical expertise with the lived experiences of individuals affected by diabetes is invaluable. We have extensive expertise within this agency, but we need to involve more community members in planning and implementing health interventions to ensure they are relevant and effective to community-identified needs. Community Health Workers (CHWs) are vital to carrying the messages and serving many needs. Their lived experience in the communities gives them the ability to tell the “so what” that speaks to the people they serve. This is a valuable and growing discipline in the field of public health.

What resources and support does DPH offer?

Dr. Bell: DPH offers a wealth of resources, including educational materials, and health care services. DPH helps every South Carolinian obtain access, resources and information they need to make decisions that enhance their health. 

The DPH website (dph.sc.gov) has information and guidance on chronic conditions, including diabetes and many other health and wellness topics. It’s a hub to connect to support services like WIC, SNAP Ed and health clinics, as well as health care training programs and certifications. Vital records are also part of DPH’s online offerings. For professionals, health care quality, data, permits and other references are accessible.

Tackling diabetes in South Carolina requires a multifaceted approach that combines public health initiatives, community engagement, policy advocacy, and accurate information dissemination. The state is making significant strides towards reducing the burden of diabetes and enhancing the well-being of its residents. By focusing on small, achievable goals and leveraging the expertise of both health care professionals and community members alike, South Carolina can create a healthier future for all. Learn how DPH and DFSC are aligned in efforts with partners across the state at diabetesfreesc.org.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health is an independent organization that offers health information you may find helpful.