American Diabetes Association Releases 2026 Standards of Care in Diabetes — What You Need to Know

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has released its highly anticipated Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026, a comprehensive update to the gold standard guidelines clinicians and health systems rely on for diagnosing, treating, and managing diabetes and prediabetes in people of all ages. These new standards reflect the latest scientific evidence and are designed to improve health outcomes and quality of care for millions of people living with diabetes. (American Diabetes Association)

What Are the ADA Standards of Care?

The ADA’s Standards of Care in Diabetes are evidence-based clinical practice recommendations that guide healthcare professionals in diabetes care. Updated annually, they cover everything from diagnosis and glucose monitoring to medication therapy, nutrition, and management of complications. The guidelines help ensure consistency and quality of care across clinical settings.

Key Updates in the 2026 Edition

The 2026 Standards include a number of important changes and additions that reflect the evolving landscape of diabetes science and treatment. Highlights include:

✔️ Expanded Use of Diabetes Technology

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is now recommended at diabetes onset and anytime thereafter for anyone who can benefit, to improve glucose management.

• Barriers to starting automated insulin delivery systems (AID) and continuous insulin infusion have been reduced — making advanced tech more accessible.

  
  

✔️ Updated Guidance on Medications

• Personalized recommendations for obesity pharmacotherapy in people with diabetes, recognizing the role of weight in metabolic health.

• New guidance on glucose-lowering therapies for people with chronic kidney disease, including those on dialysis.

• More emphasis on therapies that carry benefits beyond blood sugar control — such as heart, kidney, and liver protection.

  
  

✔️ Nutrition & Lifestyle Recommendations

• Expanded guidance on eating patterns with evidence for type 2 diabetes prevention, including Mediterranean-style and low-carbohydrate approaches.

• More focus on adequate nutritional intake and physical activity — crucial factors in long-term health.

  
  

✔️ Diabetes Management Across Lifespans

• Updated glycemic management strategies for people undergoing cancer treatment or organ transplantation.

• Refined blood pressure goals — tighter targets for individuals at high cardiovascular or kidney risk; tailored goals for older adults.

• Broader guidance on screening and monitoring for people at risk of type 1 diabetes, integrating technology like CGM.

  
  

✔️ Inclusion of Behavioral & Support Tools

• New guidance on behavioral health screening and referral, recognizing mental health concerns such as diabetes distress and anxiety.

• Best practices for supporting diabetes technology use in schools and workplaces.

  
  

✔️ Special Populations

• Expanded recommendations for children and adolescents, including nutrition education and psychosocial screening.

• Updated guidance for older adults, such as CGM use, dietary protein considerations, and functional health assessments.

• Refined hospital and perioperative care recommendations for people with diabetes.

  
  

Who Contributed to the Guidelines?

The Standards are the product of the ADA’s Professional Practice Committee (PPC), a panel of global experts in endocrinology, diabetes care, nutrition, behavioral health, and related disciplines. Several specialty organizations also endorsed sections of the 2026 Standards, including:

• American Society for Bone and Mineral Research

• The Obesity Society

• American College of Cardiology

• National Kidney Foundation

• American Geriatrics Society

• International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes

  
  

Why This Matters for Patients and Providers

These updated guidelines provide a comprehensive roadmap for diabetes care — from initial screening and prevention strategies, to advanced treatment technologies and personalized medication plans. By incorporating the latest research, the ADA aims to improve health outcomes and reduce risks of complications for people living with diabetes.

Healthcare providers can use the 2026 Standards as a clinical reference to optimize treatment plans, enhance patient education, and integrate new technologies effectively. Meanwhile, people with diabetes and caregivers can better understand how emerging strategies can support long-term health.

Accessing the 2026 Standards

The full Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026 is available online as a supplement to the January 2026 issue of Diabetes Care. ADA also offers a mobile app with interactive tables and algorithms to make it easier for clinicians and patients to navigate the guidelines. Additional reference tools, slide decks, and educational resources are available through the ADA’s professional portals.

Source: American Diabetes Association press release on the 2026 “Standards of Care in Diabetes.” (American Diabetes Association)

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This content is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about any questions or concerns regarding your health or treatment options.