💙 How November Became Diabetes Awareness Month

Every November, you might notice more people wearing blue ribbons, posting blue circle emojis 💙, or sharing stories about diabetes. That’s because November is Diabetes Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness, celebrate progress, and remind the world how many lives are affected by this chronic condition every single day. But have you ever wondered why November? Or how this global movement began? Here’s the story behind it.

🧬 The Discovery That Changed Everything

The roots of Diabetes Awareness Month go back more than a century. In 1921, a young Canadian physician named Dr. Frederick Banting, along with his assistant Charles Best, made a discovery that would change medicine forever — insulin.

Before insulin, a diagnosis of diabetes was often fatal. Banting’s discovery turned the disease into one that could be managed, giving millions of people the chance to live full, healthy lives.

Dr. Banting was born on November 14, 1891 — and that date became symbolic for diabetes awareness worldwide.

🌍 From a Single Day to a Global Movement

In 1991, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) created World Diabetes Day, celebrated each year on November 14 in honor of Dr. Banting’s birthday.

Their goal was simple: To call attention to the growing impact of diabetes and the need for better education, research, and access to care.

World Diabetes Day became so successful that, in the United States, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) decided to expand it into a full month — now known as National Diabetes Awareness Month.

🔵 The Meaning Behind the Blue Circle

If you’ve ever seen a blue circle symbol during November, it’s not just a logo — it’s a global emblem of unity in the fight against diabetes.

The blue circle was adopted by the IDF as the universal symbol for diabetes awareness.

• Blue represents the sky that connects us all — and the color of the United Nations flag, symbolizing international cooperation.

• The circle stands for life, health, and unity — a reminder that together, we can make a difference.

  
  

📅 Why Awareness Matters

Today, more than 37 million Americans live with diabetes — and millions more are at risk of developing it. Raising awareness isn’t just about facts and figures; it’s about empowering people to take control of their health.

During Diabetes Awareness Month, you’ll see:

• Free health screenings

• Educational campaigns about early warning signs

• Fundraisers supporting diabetes research

• Stories from people living with diabetes every day

Every conversation, post, and shared experience helps fight stigma and spread hope.

🩺 The Role of Direct Diabetes

At DirectDiabetes.com, we’re proud to support Diabetes Awareness Month every November — and every month of the year.

For nearly 30 years, we’ve helped people throughout the U.S. access Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs), insulin pump supplies, and testing materials through their insurance. Our mission is to make diabetes care simple, accessible, and stress-free.

📞Need help getting your supplies covered? Call us at 480-998-5551 or visit DirectDiabetes.com to learn more.