World Diabetes Day in the United States

Date: November 14

History: World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes. It became an official United Nations Day in 2006 with the passage of United Nation Resolution 61/225.

Significance: The date of November 14 was chosen to mark the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922, a therapeutic breakthrough that transformed diabetes from a fatal diagnosis to a manageable condition.

Traditions and Activities:

• Awareness Campaigns: Various organizations across the U.S. launch campaigns to spread awareness about diabetes, its risk factors, and ways to prevent or manage it.
• Health Screenings: Hospitals and clinics may offer free or discounted blood sugar screenings.
• Educational Events: Seminars, workshops, and conferences are organized to educate people about diabetes management and prevention.
• Fundraising: Charitable events such as walks or runs are organized to raise funds for diabetes research and support programs.
• Building Illuminations: Significant landmarks are often lit up in blue, which is the color of the circle logo that symbolizes World Diabetes Day.
• Social Media Campaigns: Hashtags like #WorldDiabetesDay or #WDD are used on social media platforms to increase visibility and encourage global participation.

Individuals may participate by attending events, wearing blue clothing or ribbons to show support, sharing personal stories about living with diabetes, advocating for policy changes, or educating friends and family about healthy lifestyle choices.