November is National Diabetes Month. Together we can raise awareness about an important public health issue and encourage people to take charge of their health.

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when one’s blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), it affects about 38 million Americans. This debilitating disease can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer.

Education and care management are key to fighting this preventable nationwide epidemic, and those who manage this chronic condition can avoid complications.

The HQI team strives to reduce the burden of diabetes by offering free resources and collaborating with partners to help raise awareness of diabetes self-management education and support programs.

Visit the HQIN Resource Center and select “Diabetes” in the Topics along the left margin to view and download the current offerings. Available tools include videos, learning modules, tracking sheets and self-management instructions.