November is Diabetes Awareness Month!

Every November, communities around the world come together to raise awareness, support those living with diabetes, and celebrate advancements in care and research. 

World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14th, marks the birthday of Sir Fredrick Banting, one of the scientists who discovered insulin. This day and the entire month remind us of the progress made in diabetes care and the continued importance of education, access, and community support.

Here in Iowa, there are several ways to get involved, no matter if you are looking for education, connection, or inspiration. Whether you’re living with diabetes, supporting a loved one, or working in healthcare, there’s something for everyone this November.

Diabetes 

Approximately 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, with about 248,315 individuals, or 10.1% of Iowa’s adult population, affected by the condition. Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin. The two more prevalent types are type 1 and type 2. 

Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed early in life and occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells within the pancreas, resulting in little or no insulin production. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes usually develops later and is often linked to other factors. In this case, the pancreas produces less insulin than before, or the body’s cells become resistant to insulin, making it less effective.

Major Events Across Iowa

👉🏻 Breakthrough T1D Community Summit – Iowa

📅 November 15, 2025

📍 University of Iowa – Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City

💬 Hosted by Breakthrough T1D, this event brings together experts, families, and advocates to explore the latest in type 1 diabetes research, technology, and daily management. It’s a great opportunity to learn and connect within the T1D community.

🔗 Learn more about the event here

👉🏻 10th Annual Iowa Diabetes + Wellness Summit

📅 November 19, 2025

📍 FFA Enrichment Center, Ankeny, IA

🎓 Aimed at healthcare professionals, this annual event focuses on best practices in diabetes prevention, management, and clinical care. Co-hosted by Iowa Diabetes Research and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, the summit helps bridge the gap between research and practice.

🔗 Register or learn more here

Community Events & Series

👉🏻 Fall Family Meetup – Breakthrough T1D Iowa Chapter

📅 November 2, 2025

📍 Keller Williams Realty, Ankeny, IA

Looking for a fun and supportive way to meet other T1D families? Join the Breakthrough T1D Fall Family Meetup! This community gathering brings together families affected by type 1 diabetes for a cozy afternoon filled with fall crafts, snacks, and conversation.

It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with others who understand life with T1D, share experiences, and build friendships that last beyond the event.

Please RSVP to Carley at cfarnsworth@BreakthroughT1D.org

👉🏻 Diabetes Coffee Club – Washington, IA

📅 First Thursday of every month, 9–10 AM

📍 WCHC Community Health & Wellness Conference Room

☕ Hosted by Washington County Hospital & Clinics (WCHC), this free monthly event welcomes anyone living with diabetes or prediabetes. Join peers and the WCHC diabetes care team to talk about healthy living, share tips, and learn something new,  all over a warm cup of coffee.

No registration is required; everyone is welcome!

📞 Questions? Call 319-863-3936.

👉🏻 Diabetes Management Series – Iowa City Senior Center

📅 November 5 – December 17, 2025

🗓 Sessions: November 5, December 3, December 17

📍 Iowa City/Johnson County Senior Center

This three-part educational series from the University of Iowa Health Network is designed for adults aged 50 and older interested in learning more about diabetes care and prevention.

Each session covers a different focus:

  • Understanding Diabetes: Learn how diabetes affects overall health.
  • Nutrition & Exercise: Explore how balanced meals and activity support glucose management.
  • Eating Well for Diabetes: Learn practical tips for recipes, grocery shopping, and meal prep.

📝 Part of the Senior Center’s Lifelong Learning program. Membership and registration required.

👩‍🏫 Instructor: Michelle Buhman, University of Iowa Health Network

This engaging series offers a welcoming environment for participants to build skills and confidence in managing diabetes day-to-day.

Other Notable Events Around the Region

  • Breakthrough T1D Cedar Rapids Promise Gala – Nov 1, 2025, DoubleTree by Hilton, Cedar Rapids, IA
  • Breakthrough T1D Night with the Lincoln Stars – Nov 14, 2025, Lincoln, NE
  • Breakthrough T1D Night with the Omaha Lancers – Nov 21, 2025, Ralston, NE
  • Kendra Scott “Shop for Good” Event – Nov 29–Dec 2, 2025, Kendra Scott Jordan Creek, West Des Moines, or online
  • 2026 Step Out® Walk: Chicago – American Diabetes Association fundraiser for diabetes research and advocacy

How You Can Get Involved

Diabetes Awareness Month is about more than attending events, it’s about taking part in the movement for change. Here’s a few more ways you can make a difference:

  • Wear Blue Fridays throughout November to raise awareness.
  • Share Your Story using the hashtag #DiabetesAwarenessMonth.
  • Join a Local Event to connect with others and support diabetes research.
  • Volunteer or Donate to local diabetes organizations and wellness programs.


Every action, big or small, helps shine a light on diabetes and supports those living with it.

 

Summary

From coffee chats to summits and family meetups, there’s something for everyone this Diabetes Awareness Month. Whether you’re learning something new, meeting others, or supporting research, each event brings us one step closer to a healthier, more connected community.

Let’s make this November about education, connection, and empowerment across Iowa.