Nearly one of every 10 people living in the United States has diabetes. Could you be one of them?

Come to the free DIABEATTHIS health awareness festival from noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 5 to learn more about your risks – and to take advantage of free health screenings. The event, which will be held on the Texas Wesleyan campus, will feature live music, a fitness zone, food and vendors. Screenings will be provided by Walgreens and Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth.

The event is coordinated by Michael Chaney, coordinator of student activities, volunteerism and leadership, who wants to raise $20,000 for diabetes research through the festival.

“Our health is a precious thing and we should not take it for granted. Take care of your health proactively,” Chaney said. “Learn how to minimize your risks at the DIABEATTHIS festival. The event is open to the public and we hope everyone will bring their friends and families.”

This inaugural event is expected to draw more than 3,000 people from across the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Three bands will be on hand to provide live music: Expert Witness, Jax Bros and 5000 Bullets. Activities include a rock climbing wall and a zip line and some will have a fee.

All proceeds from the event will go to JDRF, a type 1 diabetes research foundation, and the American Diabetes Association.

Could I have diabetes and not know?

The stats are staggering: 25.8 million children and adults have diabetes. Almost 19 million are diagnosed, but another 7 million is undiagnosed.

How to prevent or delay onset of diabetes

Change your diet Increase level of physical activity Maintain a healthy weight

Common symptoms

Extreme fatigue Excessive hunger or thirst Frequent urination Blurry vision Cuts or bruises that are slow to heal Weight loss Tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet

Complications from diabetes

Heart disease and stroke High blood pressure Blindness Kidney disease Nervous system disease Amputation

The event is sponsored by Guitar Center. Other supporters include Firestone and Barnes & Noble.

If you have any questions about this event, contact Michael Chaney at 817-531-6522 or mchaney@txwes.edu.