State Representative Tony McCombie (IL) | Representative Tony M. McCombie (R) 89th District
State Representative Tony McCombie (IL) | Representative Tony M. McCombie (R) 89th District
More than 4.7 million people in Illinois have or are at risk for with diabetes, and nearly 1 in 2 Americans has diabetes or prediabetes. As November kicks off, it is important to bring awareness to the alarming statistics surrounding this disease.
The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) is leading the charge in the fight against diabetes through advocacy, education, and research. They offer a wealth of resources to support individuals living with diabetes, as well as parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers. It is crucial for everyone to be informed about the risks and symptoms associated with diabetes.
In an effort to bring attention to the diabetes epidemic, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie has sponsored legislation in the Illinois General Assembly. This legislation aims to drive awareness and provide assistance to those who are diabetic. Some of the initiatives that have been signed into law include:
- HB 3690: This law mandates that teachers, administrators, and school support personnel receive training on the basics of diabetes care. By equipping educators with the necessary knowledge, they can better support students with diabetes and ensure their safety.
- SB 0250: This legislation allocates funds to the American Diabetes Association and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation for diabetes research. Additionally, it provides financial support for diabetes research treatment and programs. This investment will undoubtedly contribute to advancements in diabetes management and potentially even finding a cure.
- HB 3172: An amendment to the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act, this law removes a provision that previously prohibited individuals requiring sliding scale insulin administration from being accepted into assisted living establishments. This change ensures that individuals with diabetes have access to the care they need, regardless of their insulin administration method.
These legislative measures demonstrate a commitment to tackling the diabetes epidemic in Illinois. By raising awareness and providing support, lawmakers are striving to improve the lives of those affected by diabetes.
It is essential for individuals to be aware of their own risk of developing diabetes. The ADA offers a free 60-second risk test, which can provide valuable information to help individuals assess their likelihood of having prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
National Diabetes Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the need for continued efforts in combating this disease. Through education, research, and legislative initiatives, we can make progress in preventing and managing diabetes. As House Minority Leader Tony McCombie states, "We must work together to bring attention to the diabetes epidemic and support those affected by this disease."
By coming together as a community, we can make a difference in the lives of millions of Americans impacted by diabetes. Let us raise awareness, advocate for better care, and support ongoing research efforts to ultimately find a cure for this devastating disease.
To find out more, go to this link: https://repmccombie.com/2023/11/03/november-is-national-diabetes-awareness-month/
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