Dakota Plains Diabetes Center

The Dakota Plains Diabetes Center (DPDC) project is targeted toward maximizing the impact of selected strategies in the prevention of diabetes and its complications among Lakota people of the northern plains state of ND and SD. The unique attribute of the DPDC is its commitment to the self-determination of American Indian Nations, with the Center leadership being provided by northern plains tribes themselves. The DPDC will focus on a combination of medical and community partnerships, using culturally specific approaches to the prevention and control of diabetes in American Indian communities. The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe jointly direct it. The DPDC will address the prevention of the disease on three levels: Primary: Community based promotion and adoption of individual behavioral health practices known to be effective in the prevention of diabetes and enhancement of health promotion through use of culturally appropriate strategies. Secondary: Screening for early detection of diabetes and successful prevention of complications through early detection and consistent treatment of diabetes. Tertiary: Prevention of disability and mortality resulting from diabetes-related complications. The MBIRI personnel assisted with the database and protocol development and training of field personnel. Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe acted as grant recipient for this program.