HEALTH AND WELLNESS | November 2, 2026
Pillar Diabetes Featured

National Diabetes Month 2026: Take Charge of Tomorrow

November is National Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about diabetes, encourage early detection, and help individuals take steps toward better long-term health.

This year’s focus, “Take Charge of Tomorrow: Preventing Diabetes Health Problems,” emphasizes the importance of proactive healthcare, healthy lifestyle choices, and managing diabetes to reduce the risk of serious complications.

Diabetes can affect more than blood sugar levels. Without proper management, it can increase the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, vision loss, and nerve damage. The good news is that early detection, preventive care, and ongoing support can make a meaningful difference.

At Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center (KCHC), we believe everyone deserves access to the education, resources, and personalized care needed to take charge of their health. Our integrated approach to medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare helps patients build healthier habits, manage chronic conditions, and work toward a healthier tomorrow.

Understanding Diabetes: Your Body’s Energy Balance

Your body depends on glucose (blood sugar) for energy. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps glucose enter your body’s cells. Diabetes develops when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, causing blood sugar levels to rise.

Over time, elevated blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of serious health complications.

The Three Main Types of Diabetes

An autoimmune condition in which the body produces little or no insulin. People with Type 1 diabetes need insulin therapy to manage their blood sugar. It can develop at any age and is not currently preventable.

The most common form of diabetes, occurring when the body does not use insulin effectively. Genetics, physical inactivity, excess weight, and other factors can increase the risk. Healthy lifestyle changes, medication, and regular healthcare visits can help manage the condition. Many cases can be prevented or delayed.

Diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Although it often resolves after delivery, it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Learn more about the different types of diabetes and their symptoms from the CDC.

The Latest Diabetes Trends in 2026

According to the CDC’s National Diabetes Statistics Report, diabetes continues to be a significant public health concern in the United States.

  • 40.1 million Americans have diabetes, approximately 1 in 8 people.
  • More than 1 in 4 adults with diabetes do not know they have the condition.
  • 115.2 million American adults have prediabetes, representing more than 2 in 5 adults.
  • Approximately 8 in 10 adults with prediabetes are unaware of their condition.
  • 90–95% of diagnosed diabetes cases among adults are Type 2 diabetes.

These statistics underscore the importance of regular health screenings, understanding personal risk factors, and taking preventive action.

While diabetes can lead to serious complications, early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and consistent medical care can help prevent or delay many diabetes-related health problems.

Small Steps Today Can Prevent Health Problems Tomorrow

Preventing diabetes complications doesn’t require changing everything at once. Consistent, manageable steps can make a meaningful difference.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, as appropriate for your health and abilities.

Include vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and fiber-rich foods while limiting sugary beverages and highly processed foods.

For people with prediabetes who are overweight, losing approximately 5–7% of their starting weight can help lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. That’s 5-7 pounds for every 100 pounds of starting weight.

Adequate rest and healthy stress management support overall wellness and can make diabetes management easier. Pillar Health and KCHC offer behavioral health services to help patients address emotional and mental health concerns.

Take prescribed medications, monitor blood sugar as recommended, and attend regular medical appointments to maintain progress toward better health.

Routine eye exams, kidney health screenings, foot checks, and dental visits can help identify and correct potential complications early.

For additional information, explore the CDC’s diabetes prevention resources.

Take Charge of Tomorrow with Pillar Health and KCHC

During National Diabetes Month, begin taking proactive steps toward protecting your health.

Whether you’re concerned about your risk for Type 2 diabetes, have recently received a diagnosis, or are managing diabetes long-term, Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center are here to help.

Our medical and behavioral health teams provide patient-centered care, preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and support for healthier lifestyles.

Schedule an appointment at one of our Southeast Wisconsin locations:

  • Pillar Health – Kenosha Clinic: (262) 771-1700
  • KCHC – 22nd Avenue Kenosha Clinic: (262) 771-0070
  • KCHC – 2nd Street Silver Lake Clinic: (262) 771-1963
  • Pillar Health – Racine Clinic: (262) 771-0035

Call 262-656-0044 to schedule an appointment.

Your future health begins with the steps you take today.

Know Your Risk and Take Action

You may be at increased risk for Type 2 diabetes if you:

  • Are 35 years of age or older.
  • Are overweight or have obesity.
  • Have a family history of diabetes.
  • Have prediabetes.
  • Are not physically active.
  • Have certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure.
  • Belong to a population with a higher prevalence of Type 2 diabetes.

Knowing your risk is an important first step. Talk with your healthcare provider about blood sugar screening and ways to reduce your risk.

You can also take the CDC’s Prediabetes Risk Test to better understand your risk factors.

The Diabetes ABCs: Protecting Your Long-Term Health

Managing diabetes means looking beyond blood sugar alone. Understanding your diabetes ABCs can help reduce the risk of complications.

A – A1C: A blood test that measures your average blood sugar over approximately three months.

B – Blood Pressure: Keeping blood pressure within your recommended range helps protect your heart, kidneys, and blood vessels.

C – Cholesterol: Managing cholesterol can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Work with your healthcare team to establish personalized goals and a plan to reach them. Learn more about preventing diabetes health problems through the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Pillar Diabetes Sidebar

Do not wait to schedule your appointment.

Kenosha Community Health Center has many appointment options in Kenosha and Silver Lake to meet your needs.

Schedule An Appointment

262-656-0044

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