For nearly 80 people, a simple prick of the finger was all it took to have a better understanding of their health. Last Tuesday and Wednesday, Catalina Island Medical Center offered free diabetes screening to 76 people in the post office arcade. Fasting was needed for the test, so it was offered from 8 to 10 a.m.

"It was an excellent opportunity to engage with the community," said Family Nurse Practitioner Karla Parsons, who was on hand to discuss results with the individuals who were tested.

Undetected diabetes causes a range of health issues, including heart disease, stroke and blindness. Incidents of the disease are growing and based on national statistics, it is estimated that 450 people on the island have diabetes. Even more have pre-diabetes, which may develop into diabetes if it is not addressed.

Eating right, getting plenty of exercise and losing weight are the most effect ways to address diabetes and the conditions that lead to it.

Many of those who were screened by Parsons and Medical Assistant Christina Grain needed follow-up testing or needed to make changes in their lifestyle. The test was also able to identify many who knew they had diabetes but needed more careful control of their glucose levels.

Last week's diabetes screening was just the beginning of a series of medical center programs aimed at bringing health to the Catalina community.

"We're looking forward to offering more prevention-based outreach," Parsons said. "We were pleased with how well received we were."

Future plans include the Catalina Cholesterol Challenge which begins in May, a Breast Cancer Forum in October and additional free diabetes screening in November.

For more information visit www.CatalinaIslandMedicalCenter.org