Students will have the opportunity to be tested for diabetes today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Reitz Union Colonnade.
"All it takes is five seconds of your time and a finger prick," said Kathryn Parker, the patient and professional education coordinator at the UF Diabetes Center of Excellence.
The UF Diabetes Center and student wellness organizations are sponsoring free blood sugar screenings and awareness events to celebrate November as Diabetes Awareness Month.
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not properly use or produce insulin. It affects about 285 million people internationally.
Last year, more than 300 people were screened at the Reitz Union Colonnade alone. The UF Diabetes Center discovers about six at-risk people during each hour of testing, Parker said.
The best ways for people to combat diabetes is to be aware of their blood sugar numbers and family history.
Dr. Desmond Schatz, medical director at the UF Diabetes Center and associate chairman of pediatrics, said knowledge is empowerment.
"If you don't know, you are more likely not to pay attention to it," he said. "Being aware of diabetes risks and complications and knowing who is at risk could help you or someone you know tremendously."
Blood sugar screenings will also be held Thursday at the Shands at UF atrium from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday in Children's Medical Services Building A 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Century Tower lighting event begins at 5:30 p.m. on Friday. Attendees will be given bubbles and hear a few brief speeches prior to lighting Century Tower blue.
