Home / Health / Schools fight childhood diabetes with new UTRGV program
Schools fight childhood diabetes with new UTRGV program
18 Jul
Summary
- New "Living Longer by Design" initiative embeds clinical expertise in schools.
- Over 2,000 Harlingen students currently at risk for diabetes.
- Program launches for the 2026-2027 school year to prevent Type 2 diabetes.
A new partnership between the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) is set to combat the rising tide of Type 2 diabetes in young people. Dubbed "Living Longer by Design," the initiative will embed UTRGV's clinical expertise directly into school campuses.
This innovative program, launching for the 2026-2027 school year, aims to serve as a medical "prevention front door." The goal is to intercept Type 2 diabetes and protect the over 2,000 Harlingen students identified as being at risk for the disease.
The initiative addresses lifestyle factors contributing to childhood obesity and Type 2 diabetes, such as excessive screen time and unhealthy eating habits. UTRGV President Guy Bailey highlighted the university's commitment to creating a healthier legacy for South Texas through this collaboration.
Partnerships with organizations like Unidos Contra La Diabetes further strengthen the collective impact movement. Experts emphasize the importance of reducing screen time, promoting healthy eating, and addressing food insecurity as key components in prevention and reversal strategies.
