National Diabetes Awareness Month 2024

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time when communities across the country seek to bring attention to diabetes. This year’s focus is on taking action to prevent diabetes health problems.

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. It affects about 38 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer.

But there’s also good news: Taking charge of your health may help you prevent diabetes health problems.

Important Tips

Understand your risk for developing diabetes.

The likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes increases if you are overweight or obese, aged 35 or older, have a family history of diabetes, belong to specific ethnic groups such as African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic or Latino, or Pacific Islander, are inactive, or have prediabetes.

Keep your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol in check.

Taking steps to prevent or manage diabetes right after diagnosis can help avoid complications. Begin by focusing on the diabetes ABCs.

A refers to the A1C test, which healthcare providers use to assess your average blood glucose levels. Many individuals with diabetes also utilize devices to monitor their blood sugar levels throughout the day and night.

B stands for blood pressure.

C represents cholesterol.

Consult your healthcare team to set your ABCs goals.

Make gradual changes toward healthier habits.

Adopting lifestyle changes like preparing nutritious meals, staying active, ensuring adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking can assist in preventing or managing diabetes. You don’t need to implement everything at once; start small and gradually develop healthier routines.

Take your medications as prescribed.

It’s important to continue taking your medications even if you feel well. If you struggle with timing or dosages, discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.

Achieve or maintain a healthy weight.

If you are overweight or obese, consult your primary care provider about strategies for healthy eating, exercise, or other weight-loss options that can assist in weight management.

Losing 5 to 7 percent of your initial weight may help prevent or delay diabetes. You can use the Diabetes Risk Management Calculator to find out how much weight loss could reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Prioritize your mental health.

Managing diabetes can be challenging. If you are feeling down, anxious, or overwhelmed, explore healthy coping strategies for stress. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional or joining a support group.

Collaborate with your healthcare team.

Effective diabetes management requires a team approach. Your healthcare team may consist of a primary care physician, diabetes specialist, registered dietitian, or certified diabetes educator. Ask your primary care provider if you should consult additional healthcare professionals regarding diabetes prevention or management.

Diabetes medications, devices, and medical appointments can be costly. A social worker or another member of your healthcare team might assist you in finding community resources or financial assistance for diabetes care.