Local Press Release

The American Diabetes Association Announces State of Diabetes in Phoenix, Arizona 

October 15, 2024 | Phoenix, AZ
American Diabetes Association logo reversed out white on red background

Panelists to Discuss Innovative Strategies for Managing Obesity and Diabetes: Understanding the Costs and Social Determinants 

The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) is proud to host its annual State of Diabetes: Phoenix on World Diabetes Day, November 14, at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Phoenix, AZ. 

"I’m proud to be a part of an organization with a mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Our mission drives everything we do—from advancing research to advocating for those affected. It’s an honor to be part of this impactful work that creates a healthier future for our communities,” said Aaron Dunn, executive director, Northern Arizona area. 
 
In Arizona, approximately 615,000 of adults, or 10.6% of the adult population, have diagnosed diabetes. Each year, an estimated 34,400 adults are diagnosed with diabetes. The annual State of Diabetes event serves as a pivotal gathering, uniting employers, industry leaders, health care providers, and community experts. On a shared platform, professionals engage with an expert panel in critical discussions on how to leverage ADA resources to address the contemporary landscape of diabetes and the financial impact on employers and employees. Discussions are followed by a networking session. 

With National Sponsor, Lilly, and local sponsors Equality Health Foundation, Arizona Complete Health, Mayo Clinic, Regenesis Biomedical, Feliz Family Care, and Mercy Care, the ADA is pleased to bring State of Diabetes to Phoenix. 

“Given the high number of Americans living with diabetes and its disproportionate impact on communities of color, it's important to focus on removing barriers to care and ensuring access to essential resources. This event is a significant step in addressing the existing disparities and ensuring everyone can live a healthy and fulfilling life. By fostering collaboration among health care providers, community leaders, business owners, and policymakers and closely working with the American Diabetes Association, we can create a healthier, more equitable future for all,” said Tomas Leon, president, Equality Health Foundation.  

Over 38 million Americans are living with diabetes, and with health care costs at an all-time high, people with diagnosed diabetes have on average 2.6 times higher medical expenditures than those without. This year’s esteemed panelists will share their expert perspectives on the cost of diabetes and obesity. 

Registration is free. To learn more and register, visit diabetes.org/sodphoenix. Media interested in previewing the event can schedule an interview by emailing press@diabetes.org

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About the American Diabetes Association 
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. For 84 years, the ADA has driven discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes. There are 136 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join the fight with us on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn).