November is National Diabetes Awareness Month [NDAM], a time when communities across the country team up to bring attention to diabetes.  In 1975 Congress established NDAM, which coincides with World Diabetes Day [WDD] on November 14.  This day was chosen because it is the birthdate of Dr. Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of insulin, who is generally hailed as a diabetes hero. Following the 2006 United Nations [UN] resolution establishing WDD, the Blue Circle was chosen by the International Diabetes Federation [IDF] as an international symbol for diabetes. The color choice was in part because blue is the official color of the UN flags and logos, and partly because it’s the color of the sky that spans all national borders: a way of saying diabetes affects us all.

This year’s campaign is focused on taking care of youth who have diabetes.  This disease is one of the most common chronic conditions in school-age youth in the United States, affecting about 193,000 youth under 20 years old. If you are not aware of this disease, consider yourself lucky.  One in ten people, or 463 million individuals are living with diabetes.  This condition can be debilitating and life threating but there are things you can do to help a loved one or friend who has diabetes manage their care plan. You can also learn how to help prevent the condition in those at risk of contracting it. 

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has developed a number of resources that provide information about diabetes and how to help those with the disease successfully manager their self-care plan.  Resources for parents, caregivers, and youth as well as a tool-kit you can download. IDF also has a comprehensive website that provides a wealth of information about diabetes — how to manage it, avoid it, and how to help those with diabetes live their best life! Locally, Broadway Stages is involved with the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center, part of the Columbia University Medical Center.  Their innovative approach to treatment and prevention is renowned.  If you are looking for a local resource we encourage you to give them a call.  Wishing you all good health!