American Diabetes Association

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  American Diabetes Association logo sans slogan

American Diabetes Association

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is a United States-based nonprofit organization that seeks to educate the public about diabetes mellitus and to help those affected by it through funding research to manage, cure, and prevent diabetes. The ADA is a leading advocate for the rights of people with diabetes and provides a wealth of information and resources for patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public.

History

The American Diabetes Association was founded in 1940 by a group of 28 physicians. Initially, the organization was focused on professional education and research. Over the years, the ADA has expanded its mission to include public education and advocacy. The organization has played a significant role in advancing diabetes care and research, contributing to the development of new treatments and the establishment of standards of care.

Mission and Activities

The mission of the American Diabetes Association is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. The ADA achieves its mission through several key activities:

Research

The ADA funds research projects aimed at understanding the causes of diabetes, developing new treatments, and finding a cure. The organization supports both basic and clinical research and provides grants to researchers across the United States.

Education

The ADA provides educational resources for people with diabetes, healthcare professionals, and the public. These resources include publications, online tools, and community programs designed to increase awareness and understanding of diabetes management and prevention.

Advocacy

The ADA advocates for the rights of people with diabetes at the local, state, and national levels. The organization works to influence public policy and legislation to improve access to healthcare, promote diabetes research, and protect the rights of individuals with diabetes.

Standards of Care

The ADA publishes the "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes," which are evidence-based guidelines for the diagnosis and management of diabetes. These standards are widely used by healthcare professionals to ensure high-quality care for people with diabetes.

Programs and Initiatives

The ADA runs several programs and initiatives to support its mission:

• Diabetes Camps: The ADA sponsors camps for children with diabetes, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can learn about managing their condition while enjoying traditional camp activities.

• Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes: This is a fundraising event that takes place in various locations across the country, encouraging participants to raise money and awareness for diabetes research and education.

• Tour de Cure: A series of cycling events that raise funds for diabetes research and programs.

Related Pages

• Diabetes mellitus
• Insulin
• Blood glucose monitoring
• Endocrinology