Why World Diabetes Day Matters to Everyone, Even if You Don’t Have Diabetes

Newswise — HOUSTON – Nov. 7, 2025 – As World Diabetes Day approaches Nov. 14, Houston Methodist endocrinologist Dr. Archana Sadhu is urging the public to pay attention to a disease that affects millions – and often goes unnoticed. In the following Q&A, she explores why this global awareness day matters to everyone, the warning signs to watch for and how to support those living with diabetes.

Question: I don’t have diabetes—why should I care about World Diabetes Day?

Dr. Sadhu: In the U.S., at least 1 in 10 adults has diabetes — and 1 in 5 of them doesn’t even know it. Early diagnosis is key to preventing severe complications like blindness, stroke, heart failure, kidney failure, and amputations. Even more concerning is prediabetes, which affects 1 in 3 people, with 8 out of 10 unaware they have it. Effective interventions exist to prevent progression to type 2 diabetes. Participating in World Diabetes Day helps raise awareness, promote early detection, and advocate for equitable access to care — even if you don’t have diabetes yourself.

Question: What are some early warning signs of diabetes I shouldn’t ignore?

Dr. Sadhu: Early detection can make a world of difference. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, excessive hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing sores and recurring infections such as yeast or urinary tract infections. Type 1 diabetes may present suddenly with nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain due to diabetic ketoacidosis — a life-threatening condition requiring emergency care. Prediabetes may show subtler signs like darkened skin on the neck or armpits. If you notice these symptoms, especially with risk factors like family history or obesity, see your doctor for a simple blood test.

Question: How can I support a friend or family member living with diabetes?

Dr. Sadhu: Start with education and empathy. Learn about their type of diabetes, medications and daily challenges. Encourage healthy habits like balanced meals using the diabetes plate method (half non-starchy vegetables, a quarter lean protein, a quarter carbohydrates), join them for physical activity, and support regular check-ups. Emotional support matters too — listen to their concerns, help manage burnout and be prepared for emergencies like low blood sugar. Resources from the American Diabetes Association offer valuable caregiver tools. Your involvement can make a meaningful difference in their quality of life

Question: Is diabetes preventable, and what can I do today to lower my risk?

Dr. Sadhu: Type 1 diabetes isn’t preventable, but type 2 diabetes — which makes up 90–95% of cases — often is. If you have prediabetes, joining a National Diabetes Prevention Program can cut your risk in half through modest weight loss, healthy eating and regular activity. Start today with 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, choose whole foods over processed ones, maintain a healthy weight, avoid tobacco and get screened if you’re over 45 or have risk factors. These steps benefit not only diabetes prevention but also overall health.

Question: What’s one misconception about diabetes you wish more people understood?

Dr. Sadhu: A common misconception is that eating too much sugar alone causes diabetes. While excess sugar can lead to weight gain — a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes — the disease is multifactorial, involving genetics, lifestyle and insulin resistance. People with diabetes can enjoy sweets in moderation as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle. Educating the public helps reduce stigma and encourages a more informed, supportive approach to prevention and care.

“World Diabetes Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a call to action,” said Sadhu. “Whether you’re living with diabetes, at risk, or simply want to support others, your awareness and involvement can help change lives.”

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