Re-authorization of Special Diabetes Programs

he American Diabetes Association has long been a leader and partner in efforts to increase the federal commitment to cure and prevent diabetes and to address the diabetes epidemic in disproportionately affected populations. Since 1997, a key component of these efforts has been the Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI) and the Special Statutory Funding Program for Type 1 Diabetes Research (SDP-type1) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These two programs represent a significant contribution from the federal government to combat, prevent and cure diabetes. The programs require periodic joint Congressional re-authorization. On July 15, Congress voted to extend the Special Diabetes Programs for an additional two years - the programs will continue through September 2011. The American Diabetes Association has worked with partners such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the National Indian Health Board to ensure that Congress continues this critical investment in the fight against diabetes in America.

The Special Diabetes Program for Indians helps implement prevention and awareness programs in at-risk communities. At 17 percent, American Indians and Alaska Natives have the highest age-adjusted prevalence of diabetes among all U.S. racial and ethnic groups. Recent government studies have demonstrated that the program's prevention efforts - including increased physical activity programs in schools, wellness programs and increased nutrition education - contributed to significant increases in the availability of diabetes prevention and treatment services and care for the targeted populations

Recent funding increases at the Special Funding Program for Type 1 Diabetes Research have led to the establishment of large scale, collaborative research programs that could not otherwise have been undertaken. This has resulted in the advancement of research that accelerates the understanding, prevention, treatment, and research into a cure for type 1 diabetes through innovative technologies, new targets for drug development, and novel strategies to combat the disease and its complications. Continued investment in this program will support ongoing research and help attract new talent to this effort.

Additional Information

• Advocacy Kit for Tribal Communities to Get Involved

• Read "A Worthy Investment" article giving more insight to the Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI). (PDF)Diabetes Forecast, April 2007