North End residents learn of risk for diabetes at health fair on Saturday

A number of people in Winnipeg's North End are better aware of theirrisks fordeveloping diabetes following the second annual summer health fair and healthy barbecue, hostedby the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA).

The gathering took placeon Saturdayatthe North Centennial Recreation Facility on Sinclair Street. There, community members had access to free diabetes risk assessments and information about resources that may help them manage that risk.

According to the CDA'spublic programs and services coordinator, Laryssa Sawchuk, informing people about their risk is vital because the disease is on the rise.

"Thereare a number of people affected121,000 people in Manitoba and it's growing," she said.

The health fair started with a blessing from an elder and featured various booths from resources that are easily available to those living in the North End.There was alsoan "ask the expert" station.

Theinformation session ispart of the CDA's Core Neighbourhood Program, which provides support and education to communities that are athigh risk fordiabetes.