U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – The Virgin Islands Department of Health is pleased to announce the launch of its 2025 Diabetes Prevention Program, a comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes among individuals identified as high-risk. The program will kick off on January 25, on St. Croix and February 6. on St. Thomas.
“The prevention program is a comprehensive, evidence-based lifestyle change initiative designed to help individuals at high risk for Type 2 diabetes reduce their risk and prevent the onset of this disease,” said Janis Valmond, DrPH, Deputy Commissioner for VI Department of Health. “Our target audience includes individuals aged 18 and older who are overweight, have a family history of diabetes, are physically inactive, or have elevated hemoglobin A1C (elevated blood sugar levels), including those diagnosed with prediabetes.”
“Type 2 diabetes continues to be a significant public health concern for the territory,” said Justa Encarnacion, VI Health Commissioner. “It is a leading cause of preventable complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and lower-limb amputations. In the Virgin Islands, the prevalence of diabetes has steadily increased, underscoring the importance of preventive measures like this program.”
The Diabetes Prevention Program is a 12-month program divided into two six-month phases. Participants will benefit from personalized lifestyle coaching and group support sessions that encourage sustainable behavior changes.
– Phase 1 focuses on building healthy habits through weekly sessions that emphasize weight loss, increased physical activity, and stress management.
– Phase 2 transitions participants to monthly maintenance sessions designed to reinforce healthy lifestyle choices and ensure long-term success.
Key program components include setting achievable weight loss goals, promoting regular physical activity, and adopting balanced, nutritious eating habits.
“Our program provides the tools and support needed to help participants make meaningful, long-term changes to their health,” Deputy Commissioner Valmond added.
VI Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion emphasized the importance of this initiative for the community.
“This program is an opportunity for individuals at risk to take control of their health and make lasting changes. Prevention is not just about avoiding a disease—it’s about improving quality of life, and this program is here to guide and support every step of that journey. It also allows for sharing of the knowledge gained.”
To enroll, register online at National Diabetes Prevention Program.
For more information about the program, please call (340) 774-7477 ext. 5677 or email David Delgado at David.Delgado@doh.vi.gov , Dr. Lyna Fredericks at Lyna.Fredericks@doh.vi.gov or Cherell Lindo at Cherell.Lindo@doh.vi.gov .