With New Diabetes Data, Our CEO Issues a Call to Action

The CDC has issued a new report highlighting that diabetes, primarily type 2 diabetes, now impacts the lives of 1 in 6 American adults – much higher than previously thought. Meanwhile, health forecasters report that obesity – a key driver for the increased rate of type 2 diabetes – more than doubled in the U.S. from 1990 to 2021, and could affect up to 260 million by 2050 if current trends continue.

Given the increase in the prevalence of diabetes across the country, it’s time for us to recognize both the challenges we face and the opportunity we have to confront this disease head-on. It is, to put it mildly, a tall order – but by uniting our knowledge, resources, and resolve, we can slow, prevent, and transform the seemingly inevitable course of diabetes for millions.

The current battle, and why prevention is key

The prevalence of diabetes has grown steadily over the last 50 years. The increasing prevalence was already recognized as a significant public health issue beginning in the 1990s, and the number of adults with diabetes in the U.S. has more than doubled since 2000. 

Globally, the prevalence of diabetes has risen to 828 million adults in 2022, with the largest increases being seen in low-income and middle-income countries. Yet improvements in treatment are mainly occurring in high-income and industrialized nations. This growing divide in diabetes prevalence and treatment highlights a dire need for preventative measures and more widespread, equitable access to treatments.

This rate of growth only reinforces the importance of population-wide vigilance: The burden of diabetes is no longer simply a personal struggle. It is a call to society to address a condition that challenges families, communities, and the entire healthcare system.

Prevention – in particular, prevention of excess weight and obesity – stands as our country’s first line of defense. Our country also needs to raise diabetes awareness, prioritize risk factors such as age, race, ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI), expand screening of blood glucose and A1C, focus on early diagnosis and treatment, and create a culture where health is truly valued. By doing so, we can help those at risk prevent a diagnosis, and empower those with diabetes to live stronger, healthier lives.

The financial and human cost

Diabetes is the most expensive chronic condition in America. In 2022, the total estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes was nearly $413 billion. This number isn’t just a figure – it’s a call for accountability and commitment.

I’m not alone in holding this sentiment. At this year’s American Diabetes Association conference, FDA commissioner Dr. Robert Califf also acknowledged America’s growing diabetes problem as a public health crisis: “For the larger epidemic of type 2 diabetes, we’re failing right now,” he told the audience.

The path forward and a shared mission

We know that proactive healthcare, affordable treatments, and targeted prevention can shield individuals from the toll of complications, hospitalizations, and financial strain. Measures like capping insulin prices at $35 are more than a nod to compassion; they’re necessary to ensure accessible care for all who need it. Continuing to advocate for lower drug prices in America is one critical piece involved in confronting this issue head-on.

While diabetes may be more common in older adults, our mission at diaTribe is to reach people of all ages. Preventing diabetes starts with everyday actions, but it’s fueled by a shared sense of purpose. Together, we can change the landscape of diabetes in America, bringing understanding, compassion, and resilience to every family, every community, and every person facing this challenge. With the help of our allies, we can create a future where fewer lives are impacted by this condition.

What you (yes, you) can do

If you want to join us in the effort to defeat the diabetes epidemic, here are some suggestions for where to begin.

Know your level of risk

One’s risk of diabetes varies depending on factors such as race, ethnicity, family history, and age. Certain populations in particular need to take preventative actions. For instance, those of Asian descent are at risk for type 2 diabetes at a much lower BMI than other groups, which means they should be screened for diabetes even when well within the normal range of weight. Know your individual level of risk, and use that awareness to your advantage in pursuit of your best health. With that said, everyone can benefit from screening. 

Recognize diabetes signs and symptoms

The most common symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes are increased thirst, increased urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Memorizing and paying attention to these four warning signs in yourself and your loved ones could mean earlier detection of a diabetes diagnosis, which has a direct connection to better health outcomes.

Take control of your journey

Prediabetes is often reversible, and achieving and maintaining type 2 diabetes remission may be more within reach than many realize. While a functional cure for type 1 diabetes remains elusive (for now), exciting progress is being made toward potential biological cures, such as those at Vertex Pharmaceuticals. At the same time, diabetes technology continues to advance at an incredible pace, offering new tools to manage the condition effectively.

Some aspects of our health may be beyond our control, but it’s crucial to remember that many are well within our power. The choices we make every day have a profound impact on our health outcomes. Together, we have the power to change the trajectory of this disease and build a healthier future for everyone.

How can we stop the prevalence and rising cost of diabetes? Send us your thoughts: [email protected].

Photo credits: iStock (top); courtesy Jim Carroll (headshot); CDC NCHS, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2013-2016 (figures).