November Spotlights Diabetes Awareness and Progress
American Diabetes Month encourages awareness of diabetes management and celebrates advancements in care.
ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 29, 2026 – Every 21 seconds, a new case of diabetes is diagnosed in the United States, underscoring the urgency of awareness and education about this chronic condition. As November marks American Diabetes Month®, the American Diabetes Association® (ADA) is taking this opportunity to promote the message that a diabetes diagnosis is just the beginning of a journey, not the conclusion.
Celebrating Progress in Diabetes Care
The ADA is launching a comprehensive national campaign throughout November aimed at highlighting the advancements made in diabetes care and the breakthroughs yet to come. This initiative emphasizes the collective efforts from various sectors that have led to improved management options for individuals living with diabetes.
To spread this important message, the ADA will engage with communities across the nation through various platforms. Whether at local cinemas, healthcare facilities, rideshares, sports venues, social media, or television, the ADA is committed to ensuring that those affected by diabetes feel supported and empowered.
Understanding Risk Factors
Developing knowledge about diabetes risk factors is crucial for everyone. With significant advancements in diabetes diagnostics and treatment, early identification can lead to prevention or delayed onset of complications such as heart disease, kidney issues, and nerve damage. People can assess their risk for type 2 diabetes using a simple, free tool provided by the ADA: the 60-Second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test, available at diabetes.org/RiskTest.
For individuals with a family history of type 1 diabetes, consultation with a healthcare provider regarding screening for the disease or related autoantibodies is recommended.
Valuable Resources for Diabetic Management
The ADA offers a wealth of resources tailored to assist those managing diabetes, including:
- Access to ADA-recognized diabetes self-management education and support programs.
- Recipes, meal planning advice, and healthy living resources available on the Diabetes Food Hub®.
- Insightful information about related health conditions affecting those with diabetes.
- A consumer guide for selecting appropriate products or supplies to aid in daily management.
“Regardless of where you are on your diabetes journey, whether newly diagnosed or managing successfully, modern advancements in care are expanding the horizons of what is possible,” said Charles “Chuck” Henderson, CEO of the ADA. “The diabetes community's collaborative efforts are delivering real change and improvement in lives.”
Future Directions for Diabetes Advocacy
Looking toward the future, the ADA is ramping up investment in transformative research focused on preventing, treating, and ultimately curing diabetes. The organization is dedicated to enhancing educational outreach and advocating for affordable, accessible treatment options while fostering supportive community environments that enable individuals with diabetes to thrive.