November: Diabetes Awareness Month | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

November: Diabetes Awareness Month

How you can make a difference!

8
November: Diabetes Awareness Month
American Diabetes Association

Each November people around America observe Diabetes Awareness Month. This month is a crucial time of awareness, fundraising and education for this disease. This year the American Diabetes Association has made its theme, "This Is Diabetes", a theme focused on real life stories of people who struggle everyday with this disease. This may not seem like a big deal to you, but let me provide you with some stats on why this month is so crucial.

Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S.

Although this disease has killed more people than breast cancer and Aids, it is constantly overlooked. According to diabetes.org and the American Diabetes Association, there are currently 29 million people in the United States who are battling diabetes. Of these 29 million people, eight million were undiagnosed, meaning that 1 in every 11 people will get diagnosed with this disease along with the 86 million people at risk.No, this disease is not always caused by poor diet and obesity, it is a metabolic disease that targets the body's pancreas which causes it to not produce insulin or doesn't respond to the insulin the body has made. If we don't do something to help prevent/treat diabetes the numbers are going to grow considering there are 1.4 million people are diagnosed with disease each year.

If we want to see diabetes cured within our lifetime, it's going to take us all to raise awareness or donate our time and/or money. Consider becoming an advocate to help raise awareness, or joining in on a walk for the cure or a Tour De Cure (bicycling fundraising events) to help gain money and attention. Consider posting something on social media this month with #ThisIsDiabetes to draw some attention, take the Stop Diabetes pledge on the ADA website, or even donating any amount of money is appreciated! To gain some more education or take action, visit http://www.diabetes.org/?loc=logo. Together, we can find a cure!

#ThisIsDiabetes!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

25616
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

10710
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7898
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments