Health Articles

by Dawn Parker, AWAquitaine

Diabetes Awareness Month is observed every November around the world. It’s a time dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes, supporting those living with it, and promoting education about prevention, early detection, and management. It is symbolized by a blue ribbon.

Here are a few key points:

• World Diabetes Day: Celebrated on November 14, marking the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, one of the discoverers of insulin in 1921.
• Theme (2025): The theme for 2025 is “Taking Action to Prevent Diabetes-Related Health Problems.” The theme aims to highlight the importance of early detection, prevention and management of diabetes to reduce the risk of complications and improve overall well-being (American Diabetes Association, 2025).
• Purpose:
  • Promote understanding of different types of diabetes (Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes).
  • Highlight the importance of healthy lifestyles to prevent or manage Type 2 diabetes.
  • Encourage regular blood sugar screening and access to care.
  • Support advocacy for affordable insulin and diabetes medications globally.

🩺 Health Equity and Diabetes

Health equity means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible – regardless of race, ethnicity, income, gender, geography or other social factors. When it comes to diabetes, achieving health equity is critical because disparities in access to care, prevention and management contribute to worse outcomes for many communities.

🔍 Why Health Equity Matters in Diabetes

1. 1. Disproportionate burden
      • People from racial and ethnic minority groups (such as African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American and Pacific Islander populations) are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes and its complications.
      • Low-income communities often face limited access to nutritious food, safe spaces for exercise, and quality healthcare – all key factors in diabetes prevention and control. 

• 2. Access to care and medications
  • Insulin and other diabetes medications can be expensive.
  • Many individuals lack insurance coverage or live in healthcare deserts, where diabetes specialists and supplies are scarce.
  • Telehealth and community-based programs can help bridge these gaps, but digital access inequalities remain.
  2.  

 3. Social determinants of health (SDOH)
Factors such as education, employment, housing and transportation directly influence a person’s ability to prevent or manage diabetes. For example:

• • • Limited transportation can hinder clinic visits.
    • Unstable housing can make insulin storage difficult.
    • Food insecurity can lead to poor blood sugar control.

 4. Cultural and linguistic barriers

• • • Language differences and lack of culturally tailored education materials can limit understanding of diabetes management.
    • Building trust and representation in healthcare is essential.

💡 Promoting Health Equity in Diabetes

To reduce disparities, healthcare systems and communities can:

• Increase access to affordable insulin, medications, and diabetes technologies (like continuous glucose monitors).
• Expand community-based programs that provide culturally sensitive education and peer support.
• Address social determinants – including food insecurity and safe environments for physical activity.
• Invest in prevention through early screening and outreach in at-risk populations.
• Advocate for policy change that ensures equitable healthcare coverage and resource distribution.
  

🌍 Key Message

Achieving health equity in diabetes means ensuring that where you live, what you earn, or the color of your skin never determines your chances of living a healthy life.

💡 Target for people with diabetes:

Most adults with diabetes aim for an A1C below 7%, though the goal may vary depending on age, health status and treatment plan.

A normal A1C (also called hemoglobin A1C or HbA1C) reflects your average blood sugar level over the past 2–3 months.

Here’s the general breakdown according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA):

Diabetes is a complex disease, and it is important to note that these ranges may vary slightly depending on key factors such as age, health conditions and medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on A1C levels. Wear a blue ribbon and get to know what your A1C is. Early detection is crucial in living and thriving with diabetes.

I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes about 6 years ago and for the first time I realized how difficult it must be for patients to understand and manage their disease. I was an experienced ICU, ER and trauma specialist and struggled with all the information and suddenly having to manage insulin doses, constant testing and how to manage a new diagnosis. For the first time I realized that if I am struggling with this as an experienced clinician, imagine how difficult it must be for patients without medical backgrounds. I had an entirely different viewpoint after that. Not to mention, diabetes is an expensive disease; the medication and the supplies are simply out of reach for millions. It’s important to get tested and know your numbers. We should all should know what our current A1C is.

 Photo from Canva.com