Diabetes affects over 37 million Americans, with more than 500 million people worldwide now facing this complex and often misunderstood condition¹. But while diabetes itself presents significant challenges, it is the lack of access to affordable care and the stigma surrounding the disease that create an even greater burden. This World Diabetes Day, it’s time to confront these issues head-on, support those affected, and fight for a future where no one has to face diabetes alone.

Diabetes in America: A Growing Epidemic

In the U.S., diabetes continues to grow at an alarming rate. Type 2 diabetes, largely influenced by diet and lifestyle, has increased dramatically in the past few decades, while type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition, remains a daily reality for millions. Globally, the number of people with diabetes has quadrupled since 1980, fueled by factors like poor access to healthcare, unhealthy diets, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles². For Americans, the need for increased awareness, support, and accessible care is more urgent than ever.

The True Cost of Diabetes

Managing diabetes often comes with significant financial costs. The average person with diabetes spends roughly $9,600 more on medical care each year than someone without the condition. For those who rely on insulin, prices have soared, leaving many struggling to afford a treatment they need to survive³. In fact, millions of people, even in developed nations, go without necessary medications, monitoring supplies, and regular doctor visits simply due to cost.

This lack of affordable care is more than a health crisis; it’s a humanitarian one. It forces people to make impossible choices between insulin and other essentials. It puts families under financial strain. And ultimately, it prevents people with diabetes from living full, healthy lives.

Facing Stigma: The Hidden Burden

For those living with diabetes, social stigma often adds an invisible burden. People with diabetes frequently face blame, judgment, and discrimination—both at work and in their personal lives. Misunderstandings about diabetes fuel these issues, leading others to mistakenly view it as a “self-inflicted” disease, especially for those with type 2 diabetes. This stigma affects mental health, leading to feelings of shame and isolation that can worsen overall well-being⁴.

It’s time to change the narrative. By sharing stories of resilience and understanding the realities of diabetes, we can combat these harmful misconceptions and build a more compassionate community for everyone.

Small Actions, Big Impact

Education is the first step toward prevention, and prevention can change everything. Simple lifestyle changes can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes in many cases. But for those already diagnosed, understanding risk factors and learning how to manage the condition is equally vital. Today’s World Diabetes Day theme, “Know Your Risk, Know Your Response,” encourages everyone to assess their own risk and seek information on how to prevent diabetes or control it more effectively⁵.

Take a Stand for Better Diabetes Care

On this World Diabetes Day, let’s work together to break the cycle of stigma, increase access to affordable care, and spread understanding. By signing our petition, you join a movement that supports diabetes awareness, promotes better healthcare policies, and advocates for a more inclusive and empathetic world. Let’s make sure that no one has to navigate diabetes alone or in silence.

Take action now. Sign the petition to support a future where everyone has access to the diabetes care they need.

More on this issue:

1. World Health Organization (14 November 2023), "Breaking the Silence on World Diabetes Day."
2. United Nations, "World Diabetes Day Overview."
3. Sanofi (14 November 2023), "Know Your Risk, Know Your Response."
4. World Diabetes Day, "Let's talk about well-being for a better diabetes life."
5. International Diabetes Federation (2024), "Awareness."