This November, in observance of National Diabetes Month, communities across the country seek to bring attention to this debilitating disease, highlighting how to take action to prevent diabetes health problems.

Diabetes occurs when blood glucose, or blood sugar, is too high. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), it affects about 37 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer.

The Health Quality Innovation Network (HQIN) offers free diabetes resources for health care providers and patients. Visit HQIN’s online Resource Center to view brief learning modules and videos, and to download tools to better manage diabetic care.