Observing National Diabetes Awareness Month

By Office of Communications & Marketing | Nov 7, 2025

This month, we join the nation in observing National Diabetes Awareness Month, focusing on raising awareness, promoting education, and encouraging our community to assess their risk for diabetes. Diabetes, particularly Type 2, affects many in our community and can lead to severe health complications without proper management.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. Symptoms may include excessive thirst, hunger, fatigue, frequent urination, and blurred vision. While it’s often linked to factors like obesity, physical inactivity, family history, and specific ethnic backgrounds, early screening and precautionary steps can make a substantial difference.

In Brooklyn, diabetes is a significant health issue, with over 10 percent of the population affected by the condition. This percentage reflects a high prevalence rate, indicating that diabetes management and prevention are critical public health priorities within the community.

At Downstate, we emphasize the importance of diabetes awareness as part of our commitment to community health, and recognize that prevention begins with access. Through our Downstate Health Family Medicine center at 253 Empire Boulevard and community-based outreach programs, we continue to expand access to screening, nutrition counseling, and diabetes education across Central Brooklyn. These initiatives reflect our commitment to the #KeepCareClose mission: empowering residents to take charge of their health, right where they live.

We appreciate our dedicated UHD Endocrinology team for their vital role in keeping Brooklyn informed and healthier. Their ongoing efforts to educate residents about diabetes and implement strategies to prevent and manage diabetes-related complications are essential to improving community health.

Tags: Commemorative Months