Every November, World Diabetes Day shines a global spotlight on the growing diabetes epidemic. Observed on November 14, the day is a rallying call for awareness, action, and support for people living with diabetes.

In the United States, where diabetes affects over 37 million people, the day carries particular significance. It’s a reminder of the need for accessible care, education, and collective support to curb this growing health crisis.

The Growing Need for Awareness and Action

Diabetes, a chronic disease that affects how the body processes blood sugar, has become a serious public health concern in the U.S. Globally, the number of people living with diabetes has more than quadrupled since 1980. In 2014, the United Nations reported over 422 million cases, compared to just 108 million in 1980 . This rapid rise is particularly notable in low- and middle-income countries, though the U.S. has not been immune. A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and increased obesity rates have fueled the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, which accounts for roughly 90% of diabetes cases worldwide.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates that nearly half of all adults living with diabetes remain undiagnosed. As such, this year’s theme, “Know Your Risk, Know Your Response,” is a call for action, encouraging individuals to assess their risk factors and seek medical guidance where necessary, Sanofi reports. For Americans, where healthcare access varies dramatically, World Diabetes Day is also a call to push for more affordable care, especially for vulnerable communities.

Overcoming Stigma and Supporting Well-being

Living with diabetes can be an isolating experience. Many people face stigma and misunderstandings that impact their emotional well-being. For example, people often attribute type 2 diabetes solely to lifestyle choices, leading to unfair blame. But as shared by Nikhita, a diabetes advocate from the United States, raising awareness through storytelling is key. "Lived experience is so important when it comes to raising awareness about diabetes. Hearing someone’s story humanizes the condition," she explained in an interview with the World Health Organization.

This year, the theme for World Diabetes Day extends from awareness to well-being, urging communities to consider not just the physical but also the mental health of those affected. Studies show that 36% of people with diabetes experience diabetes distress, a psychological response to the demands of diabetes management. Beyond clinical care, World Diabetes Day advocates for a holistic approach to diabetes management that acknowledges and addresses mental health.

Access to Care: A Persistent Challenge

Despite being a developed nation, the U.S. faces significant barriers to diabetes care. The United Nations highlights the challenge of diabetes care access worldwide, particularly concerning insulin availability. Though insulin was discovered over a century ago, millions still struggle to afford this life-saving medication. As one advocate put it, managing blood sugar without consistent access to monitoring equipment and medications is nearly impossible, yet it remains the reality for many globally.

The IDF's ongoing campaigns underscore the importance of affordable insulin and diabetes supplies as fundamental human rights. As reported by the International Diabetes Federation, World Diabetes Day serves as a platform to advocate for policies that ensure all people have access to necessary diabetes care and medications. For Americans, this translates into supporting organizations and legislative efforts aimed at reducing the costs of diabetes care.

 

How Americans Can Participate in World Diabetes Day

The IDF’s call to action on World Diabetes Day includes educating oneself on diabetes risks, getting screened, and encouraging others to do the same. Additionally, people are encouraged to share information on social media, using symbols like the blue circle, which represents global unity in the fight against diabetes. Some ways to participate include:

• Hosting Awareness Events: Many organizations hold local events, including screenings and educational seminars. Participating in or volunteering for these events can make a difference in community awareness.
• Spreading Awareness on Social Media: Using hashtags like #WorldDiabetesDay or #WDD2023 helps spread the message to a wider audience. Sharing stories, statistics, and resources can spark meaningful conversations about diabetes.
• Supporting Diabetes Research and Advocacy: Donations to organizations focused on diabetes research, such as the American Diabetes Association, help fund research for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

For people living with diabetes, World Diabetes Day is also an opportunity to celebrate resilience and foster a supportive community. Encouragingly, as Sanofi reports, effective diabetes management starts with small steps that add up over time, from dietary adjustments to consistent exercise and stress management.

Looking Ahead: Supporting Ongoing Efforts

World Diabetes Day serves as a reminder that the fight against diabetes requires sustained attention. The UN’s designation of November 14 is not just a symbolic gesture. It’s a call to tackle diabetes through improved policies, better access to care, and a more supportive environment for those affected. For Americans, it’s a moment to reflect on the importance of accessible healthcare, awareness, and compassion.

As we observe World Diabetes Day, the question remains: how can each of us contribute to a future where diabetes care is a right, not a privilege? Supporting awareness campaigns, pushing for policy changes, and fostering an environment of understanding can pave the way toward a world where no one faces diabetes alone.