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Celebrating 85 Years of the American Diabetes Association

This August, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) proudly commemorates 85 years of dedicated efforts towards creating a future free from diabetes. Founded in 1940, the ADA has consistently been at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in the care, treatment, and understanding of diabetes.

Pioneering Milestones: A Journey through Time

The ADA's journey is punctuated with significant milestones that have shaped the landscape of diabetes care:

• - 1949: The first ADA Camp opens, providing a safe and supportive environment for children with diabetes. This initiative has now expanded nationwide, serving around 3,300 children and their families each year.
• - 1952: The establishment of the ADA Research Program signifies a commitment to accelerating advancements in diabetes care. Over the years, this program has invested hundreds of millions of dollars into critical research initiatives.
• - 1984: With the publication of the first National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES), the ADA set a benchmark for high-quality diabetes education. Today, it boasts the largest collection of recognized DSMES programs, aiding those living with diabetes.
• - 1989: The ADA begins the annual publication of the Standards of Care in Diabetes, a vital resource for healthcare professionals, ensuring they have access to the latest best practices in diabetes management.
• - 1991: The ADA's advocacy efforts play a crucial role in passing the first Diabetes Cost Reduction Act (DCRA), which has been adopted in 46 states, significantly easing the financial burden on many patients.
• - 1996: Launching diabetes.org, the ADA embraces the digital age, making diabetes education and resources more accessible online.
• - 1999: The Safe at School® campaign is initiated, working towards safe environments in schools for students with diabetes.
• - 2012: Power Up is introduced, an initiative aimed at educating and engaging youth at risk of type 2 diabetes through nutrition and physical activity programs. This initiative has evolved into Project Power.
• - 2013: The Pathway to Stop Diabetes® program is launched, enhancing funding and network opportunities for diabetes researchers.
• - 2018: A collaboration with the American Heart Association® leads to the launch of Know Diabetes by Heart™, targeting the reduction of cardiovascular risks in people with diabetes.
• - 2020: The ADA helps establish the Focus on Diabetes® program to better educate those at risk of vision-related complications from diabetes.
• - 2022: The Amputation Prevention Alliance is introduced to combat the rising number of diabetes-related amputations.
• - 2023: A significant victory is secured as Medicare introduces a monthly $35 cap on insulin prices, a crucial step towards affordability for diabetic patients.
• - 2024: The Obesity Association™, a division of the ADA, surfaces with the goal of addressing obesity through trusted standards and comprehensive care initiatives.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on these milestones, Charles "Chuck" Henderson, CEO of the ADA, emphasizes the importance of every achievement in the ongoing battle against diabetes. “Every new research finding and every advancement in treatment contributes to the lives of millions who are affected by diabetes," he stated, highlighting the ADA's commitment to pushing forward in both prevention and cure strategies.

The ADA remains committed to its mission, emphasizing the importance of community engagement through advocacy, program development, and educational outreach to improve the lives of those living with diabetes. With approximately 136 million Americans currently living with diabetes or prediabetes, the ADA’s role in fostering access to care and resources is more crucial than ever.

To learn more about the ADA’s initiatives or to contribute to their mission, visit diabetes.org or connect with them on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.