Saint Thomas Hospital is hosting a free diabetes seminar entitled “What to Know Head to Toe” on Wednesday, according to a press release.

The seminar, which will be led by Amy Marsalis, former Nashville news anchor and current spokesperson for NashvilleGoesRed.org, will give guests a chance to hear from physicians and other experts specializing in diabetes, podiatry, endocrinology, internal medicine, vascular care, ophthalmology, nephrology and nutrition.

“In Middle Tennessee, diabetes is wide-spread and impacts an increasing number in our community. At Saint Thomas Hospital, we are committed to providing information and education to support a healthy community. This seminar will help explain the risk factors, treatment options and how diabetes affects the body, ‘head to toe.’ With the right information and action, patients can manage this disease,” said Dawn Rudolph, CEO at Saint Thomas Hospital.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.

While an estimated 18.8 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes, nearly 7 million people are unaware that they have the disease.

The free seminar will began 8:30 am in the Saint Thomas Hospital Medical Learning Center, Conference Rooms A and B. Refreshments will be provided.

To RSVP, call 615-284-LIFE (5433). Free self-parking is available in the Seton Parking Garage.