November is Diabetes Awareness Month: Take Charge of Your Health
Every November, we come together to recognize Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding, encouraging early detection, and supporting those living with diabetes.
💙 Why It Matters
According to the CDC, over 37 million Americans have diabetes—and about 1 in 5 don’t know they have it. Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy, but with the right care and awareness, it can be managed effectively and even prevented in some cases.
🩺 Know the Types
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, often linked to lifestyle factors and genetics.
- Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and increases the risk of developing type 2 later in life.
⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch For
- Increased thirst or hunger
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight changes
- Fatigue or blurred vision
- Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections
If you recognize any of these symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested.
🌿 Steps Toward Prevention and Management
- Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Stay active—aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Get regular checkups and blood glucose screenings.
💬 Join the Movement
This month, wear blue to show your support, share your story, or encourage a friend to get screened. Small actions can make a big difference in raising awareness and saving lives.
Together, we can turn awareness into action—and build a healthier future for everyone.
Click on our page Books Every T1D Family Should Read for great books to share with others to spread awareness about T1D. We use these books in my son’s classroom on World Diabetes Day- November 14th.
Here are some other great ideas to help spread awareness throughout the month, especially on November 14th.
- Coloring pages Superhero | Color for Diabetes Awareness
- Read a T1D book to the class (book list)
- Spread awareness by posting daily facts and information about T1D on your social media pages and use hashtags #WorldDiabetesDay, #DiabetesAwareness, #DiabetesLife, #KnowYourNumbers, #Type1Diabetes
- Wear blue throughout the month, but especially on November 14th
- Encourage people to get screened if they have a family history of diabetes
- Shop from the list below for great products to purchase and share with others.
- We usually purchase bracelets and stickers for my son to give out to his classmates on November 14th. The kids love getting them, and he loves to feel supported by everyone in his class.
