Key Points:
- World Diabetes Day is November 14, held each year on the birthday of insulin co-discoverer Sir Frederick Banting.
- The 2025 theme is “Diabetes and well‑being at work,” highlighting the need for greater support, flexibility, and understanding for people with diabetes in the workplace.
- An estimated 590 million people worldwide are living with diabetes — and many more remain undiagnosed.
- Wearing blue, sharing stories, or taking part in a diabetes walk or event are easy ways to get involved.
- WHO aims for major global progress by 2030, including 100% access to insulin for people with type 1 diabetes.
World Diabetes Day is just around the corner — landing, as always, on November 14 — and it’s the perfect time to raise awareness, reflect on progress, and explore new ways to support those living with diabetes.
This global observance was created by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991, and it was designated an official United Nations day in 2006. The date honors the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin in 1921.
This year’s theme: diabetes and well-being at work
The 2025 theme — “Diabetes and Well‑Being at Work” — shines a spotlight on how diabetes affects adults during their working years and the unique challenges faced in the workplace. The campaign is calling on employers, colleagues and individuals to create environments where people living with diabetes can thrive — with dignity, support, and the tools they need to manage their health.
The campaign message emphasizes:
- Millions of people with diabetes are of working age — and many face stigma, discrimination or barriers at work.
- Managing diabetes isn’t just a medical issue — it’s also about mental health, access to flexible care, and a workplace that understands.
- Everyone with diabetes should have the opportunity to live well, whether they’re in a job, building a career, or transitioning into retirement.
World Diabetes Day is also a time to raise awareness about the five global diabetes coverage targets endorsed by WHO Member States in 2022, to be achieved by 2030:
- 80% of people with diabetes are diagnosed
- 80% of those diagnosed have good blood glucose management
- 80% of those diagnosed have good blood pressure management
- 60% of people with diabetes age 40+ receive statins
- 100% of people with type 1 diabetes have access to affordable insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring
Ways to get involved in 2025
Whether you have five minutes or five hours, here are some meaningful ways to participate this year:
- Wear blue on November 14. It’s the official color of diabetes awareness. Snap a photo in your favorite blue gear and post it with #WorldDiabetesDay and #BlueCircle to help spread the word.
- Share your story. Whether you’re living with diabetes or supporting someone who is, your voice matters. Consider posting about your experience, the challenges you’ve faced, or what you’ve learned.
- Take the risk assessment. IDF offers a free, multilingual online tool to assess your risk for type 2 diabetes — and encourages everyone to share it with friends and family.
- Join or start a walk. The Global Diabetes Walk has engaged millions of people across the globe. Check online to see if a walk is happening near you or start your own with friends or coworkers.
- Light it up. If you work at or know of a local landmark, ask about lighting it blue on November 14 to help raise visibility.
- Explore new resources. Many organizations — from the American Diabetes Association to local diabetes clinics — are offering webinars, toolkits, and free downloads this month.
Why it matters
Today, an estimated 590 million people are living with diabetes worldwide. Spreading awareness can lead to earlier diagnoses, better self-management, and improved access to care for those who need it most.
Let’s work together to ensure everyone has the tools, knowledge, and support they need to live well with diabetes — today and every day.
To learn more or get involved, visit WorldDiabetesDay.org.
Want to learn more about ways to observe World Diabetes Day and National Diabetes Month this November? Read Ten Ways to Observe National Diabetes Month.
