November 01, 2026
WHEREAS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 40.1 million adults and children in the United States have diabetes and an estimated 115.2 million adults have prediabetes; and,
WHEREAS, an estimated 939,641 Michigan adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, and more than 1 million adults across the state are estimated to have prediabetes; and,
WHEREAS, there are significant disparities in diabetes prevalence in Michigan. Non-Hispanic Black adults (16.3%) have the highest rate among all racial groups, followed closely by non-Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islander adults (14.9%). Additionally, adults with disabilities (16.4%) are more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than adults without disabilities (8.4%); and 46.2% of adults 65 years and older are at risk for diabetes. These disparities exist for many reasons, including but not limited to inequitable access to health insurance, health care, medication, nutritious food, transportation, housing, education and options for physical activity; and,
WHEREAS, diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. and in Michigan; and,
WHEREAS, diabetes poses a severe economic burden in Michigan. People with diagnosed diabetes have medical expenditures about 2.6 times higher than people without diabetes; and,
WHEREAS, unmanaged diabetes puts people at risk for serious complications including cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney disease and dialysis, nerve damage and amputation; and,
WHEREAS, managing diabetes before and during pregnancy is critical for the health of the woman and baby. Approximately 12.5% of women who have live births develop gestational diabetes; and,
WHEREAS, screening for Type 1 diabetes is available; and,
WHEREAS, research shows that people at high risk for diabetes can lower the risk for Type 2 diabetes by staying at a healthy weight, eating well and being active; and the Diabetes Prevention Program, which is a national program led by the CDC is available as a covered Medicaid and Medicare benefit for no charge; and,
WHEREAS, research demonstrates that people with diabetes who engage in Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support can achieve improved A1C levels, which measure long-term blood sugar levels, and this service is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurance plans; and,
WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, along with partner organizations, have come together to increase awareness and focus efforts to prevent and/or decrease the adverse effects of diabetes in the state of Michigan while working to reduce preventable differences in health status and outcomes;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 2026 as Diabetes Awareness Month in Michigan.
