Local Press Release

The American Diabetes Association Announces State of Diabetes in Seattle

October 15, 2024 | Seattle, WA
American Diabetes Association logo reversed out white on red background

Panelists to Discuss Costs of Diabetes: Strategies for Prevention and Management in the Workplace 

The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) is proud to host State of Diabetes: Puget Sound on World Diabetes Day, November 14, at the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, Merrill Commons. 

“As the prevalence of this chronic disease rises, it’s crucial for employers to prioritize health initiatives that support employees living with obesity and diabetes,” said Meagan Darrow, MPA, CHES, the ADA’s executive director, Washington area. “Investing in workplace wellness and comprehensive insurance not only enhances employee wellbeing, but also fosters a more productive workforce and reduces absenteeism. This event will encourage conversations and learning so we can create a healthier, more supportive work environment for everyone.”  
 
In Washington, approximately 536,600 adults, or 8.7% of the adult population, have diagnosed diabetes. Each year, an estimated 36,400 adults in Washington are diagnosed. 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 Platinum Sponsor, Delta Dental of Washington, the ADA is pleased to bring State of Diabetes to Seattle.  

“Delta Dental of Washington is sponsoring the State of Diabetes due to the connection between diabetes and oral health. Untreated gum disease can make it more difficult to manage diabetes and disparities, for both conditions persist by race/ethnicity, income, and geography. Our partnership with the American Diabetes Association is important to us due to our joint commitment to health equity. I look forward to engaging with representatives from organizations and companies throughout our region to collectively combat the rise in diabetes rates.” Diane Oakes, chief mission officer, Delta Dental of Washington 

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 Costs of Diabetes: Strategies for Prevention and Management in the Workplace. 

Registration is free and open to human resources, health care, and other professionals interested in taking action on diabetes in the Puget Sound area. To learn more and register, visit diabetes.org/sodpugetsound. 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).