Learn about diabetes, a disease which affects over 35 million people in the United States alone, and what this important November initiative supports.
Raising Awareness in November
November is National Diabetes Month, a period dedicated to educating people on this very prevalent disease in the United States and beyond. Also called American Diabetes Awareness Month, the observance encourages people to understand their diabetes risk and use resources that support healthier living.
About the initiative
National Diabetes Month grew out of efforts to raise public awareness and strengthen diabetes research and education. Federal recognition dates at least to 1982, when a proclamation, issued in accordance with a congressional resolution, designated November as National Diabetes Month and called for nationwide programs and activities. The observance continues to bring communities together to highlight diabetes prevention, treatment, and the challenges of living with the disease.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) marks November as American Diabetes Month through public education and awareness campaigns. Its work supports diabetes research, community resources, and advocacy for affordable, accessible care. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), also supports the observance with educational materials and outreach tools. These efforts help people understand diabetes and its risks while supporting those already living with the condition.
The U.S. government’s role extends beyond recognizing the month. Through NIH and NIDDK, it supports research and shares evidence-based information about blood glucose, diabetes management, and ways to prevent or delay related health problems. NIDDK’s awareness resources emphasize working with a health care team and managing blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Together, federal research and nonprofit initiatives aim to reduce complications, improve quality of life, and advance the search for better treatments and cures.
Understanding Diabetes
NIH explains that diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. Unfortunately, it affects over 40 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes needs attention, as it can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart, and is linked to some types of cancer. NIH shares, “But there’s also good news: Taking charge of your health may help you prevent health problems.”
Some Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
Per NIDDK, if you are overweight or obese, physically inactive, are age 35 and up, have a family history of diabetes, or are African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic or Latino, or Pacific Islander, or have prediabetes, you are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. These independent factors or combinations of factors can increase your type 2 risk. Consult your physician on your personal risk factors.
Type 1 vs. Type 2 & Gestational Diabetes
Per Healthline, Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, whereas type 2 diabetes (T2D) involves insulin resistance, often linked to genetics, lifestyle and weight. You can develop type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes at any age, but type 2 risk increases with age. Experts at Healthline explain, “While T1D was once viewed as “juvenile diabetes” and only adults were diagnosed with T2D, those are outdated and misguided concepts in modern medical care.” Both types may lead to chronically high blood sugar levels that can increase risk of health complications. Another type of diabetes, gestational diabetes, is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Each type of diabetes is serious and needs to be medically evaluated and treated.
The Role of Genetics and Lifestyle
Research into autoimmune disease, including type 1 diabetes, is ongoing. Diet and lifestyle habits are not believed to be directly linked to type 1 diabetes, though living a fit lifestyle is encouraged. But lifestyle factors do contribute to type 2 diabetes, even though other genetic and environmental factors may also play a role. Healthline describes, “When you develop type 2 diabetes, your pancreas will try to compensate by producing more insulin. Because your body is unable to effectively use insulin, glucose accumulates in your bloodstream, and your blood sugar levels start increasing over time.”
Recognizing Symptoms and Prediabetes
Common diabetes symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and blurred vision. Type 1 diabetes often develops quickly, while type 2 diabetes may develop gradually and cause few or no noticeable symptoms for years. Testing can identify diabetes before complications develop. Fruity-smelling breath can be a warning sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening complication, rather than a routine symptom. Seek emergency care if it occurs with vomiting, difficulty breathing, or other signs of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Prediabetes means blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. It increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but progression is not inevitable. A health care professional can explain testing, assess individual risk, and recommend changes that may help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
World Diabetes Day: Early Action Matters
World Diabetes Day falls on Saturday, November 14, 2026, during National Diabetes Month. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) reports that 1 in 9 adults worldwide are living with diabetes and projects that the number will reach 853 million by 2050. Its two-year World Diabetes Day campaign for 2026–2027, “Early action on diabetes,” emphasizes early diagnosis of diabetes and reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This global campaign complements November’s U.S. awareness efforts; it is not a single shared theme for every diabetes observance.
IDF brings together national diabetes associations to improve the lives of people with diabetes and support prevention for those at risk. Through education, advocacy, and awareness campaigns, it promotes timely diagnosis, access to quality care, and support without stigma. To learn how to get involved and find activities in your area, visit www.worlddiabetesday.org.
Why Your Involvement Matters
Early diagnosis helps people access treatment and support before serious complications develop. Talk with a health care professional about your symptoms, risk factors, and whether testing is appropriate, even if you feel well. For people living with diabetes, an individualized care plan can guide blood glucose monitoring, treatment, and ongoing checkups. Understanding the diabetes ABCs is one useful part of that plan:
- A — A1C: A blood test that shows average blood glucose over approximately three months.
- B — Blood pressure: Managing blood pressure helps protect the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes.
- C — Cholesterol: Managing cholesterol helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Your health care team can help set goals and explain which tests and treatments are right for you. Awareness also needs to translate into reliable access to insulin, other prescribed medicines, and ongoing care. Communities can help by challenging stigma, sharing trustworthy information, and supporting research into better treatments and cures. Much remains to be learned, and collective support can make living with diabetes less isolating.
A Month of Awareness, a Year of Support
Many of us know someone living with diabetes; a friend, neighbor, family member, colleague, or live with it ourselves. National Diabetes Month is a reminder that health education and compassionate support matter at every age. Understanding the condition, joining an awareness activity, or asking someone how you can help are practical ways to contribute. November can be a starting point for informed action and ongoing support throughout the year.
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