This November, It’s Up to Everyone to Put On Their Capes and Take A Stand Against Diabetes

American Diabetes Month^® Campaign Celebrates the Millions of Heroes Managing Diabetes Every Day

ARLINGTON, Va. (November 1, 2017) - In recognition of November as American Diabetes Month, the American Diabetes Association^® (Association) reminds us that there's a hero inside everyone affected by diabetes. An extension of the 2016 theme, This Is DiabetesTM, the 2017 campaign will share the stories of people with diabetes and how their strength, courage and determination make them heroes.

Nearly half of all American adults have diabetes or prediabetes, yet most don't understand the life-long burden of this chronic illness or the 24/7 work it takes to effectively manage diabetes. This campaign asks everyone affected by diabetes-whether that means people living with diabetes, caregivers or those who are at risk of developing diabetes-to put on their capes and share how they're taking a stand. Diabetes is a complex health condition that affects millions of people and without proper management, can lead to serious complications.

“People living with diabetes face enormous challenges each day to manage their diabetes and they must do so while living their normal lives. We recognize the incredible strength they show, and stand with them to help stop the diabetes epidemic,” said the Association's Chief Scientific, Medical and Mission Officer William T. Cefalu, MD. “From the mom who takes her insulin shot on the way to pick up her daughter from ballet, to the businessman who prepares his mother's meals and her diabetes medicine each day before leaving for work, the stories of everyday people who live with or love someone with diabetes remind all of us that they are heroes.”