Recognizing World Diabetes Day
Every year on November 14th, people around the world come together to recognize World Diabetes Day — a global movement led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO). This day shines a light on the growing impact of diabetes and emphasizes the importance of prevention, early detection, and access to ongoing care.
At Rochester Clinical Research, we are proud to contribute to these global efforts through clinical research. Our studies focus on understanding diabetes better, developing safer and more effective treatments, and improving long-term outcomes for individuals living with the condition.
Understanding Diabetes: A Global Health Challenge
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 38 million Americans are living with diabetes, and about one in five don’t know they have it. Diabetes occurs when the body can’t properly regulate blood sugar (glucose), leading to elevated levels that can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.
While there is currently no cure, diabetes can be managed and, in some cases, prevented through education, awareness, and continued advances in treatment and research.
Prevention: Small Steps Make a Big Difference
Preventing or delaying Type 2 diabetes begins with lifestyle awareness. Studies from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) show that moderate physical activity, balanced nutrition, and even a small amount of weight loss — just 5% to 10% of total body weight — can significantly reduce risk.
Clinical research helps identify which prevention methods work best and continues to explore new therapies that support people in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and reducing long-term complications.
Management: Empowerment Through Education and Innovation
For those already living with diabetes, effective management means staying informed and supported. That includes regular glucose monitoring, taking prescribed medications, following a balanced diet, and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Thanks to ongoing research, new treatments are emerging that improve how people manage their diabetes day-to-day. From once-weekly injections to oral medications and continuous glucose monitoring technologies, innovation is helping patients achieve better control and improved quality of life.
Resources like the American Diabetes Association (ADA) provide guidance on self-management, nutrition, and education to help individuals take charge of their health.
The Role of Clinical Research in Diabetes Care
Every diabetes medication, device, and management tool began as a clinical research study. Through these studies, researchers and volunteers work together to test new therapies, understand side effects, and explore ways to make treatments more effective and accessible.
At Rochester Clinical Research, we conduct research studies that evaluate investigational medications and approaches for people living with diabetes and those at risk of developing it. Participants receive study-related care and monitoring while contributing to discoveries that may improve lives worldwide.
If you or someone you know is living with diabetes or at risk, participating in research could be a powerful way to help shape the future of diabetes care.
Join the Movement This World Diabetes Day
This World Diabetes Day, we honor the resilience of those living with diabetes and the dedication of healthcare professionals and research volunteers who continue to drive progress.
👉 Learn more about our current diabetes research opportunities
To learn more about diabetes awareness and prevention:
- World Diabetes Day: worlddiabetesday.org
- CDC Diabetes Basics: cdc.gov/diabetes
- American Diabetes Association: diabetes.org
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: niddk.nih.gov
Together, through education, prevention, and research, we can create a healthier future for everyone affected by diabetes.
