[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 129 (Wednesday, November 15, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2041-E2042]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING NATIONAL DIABETES MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 15, 2006

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize November as 
National Diabetes Month. Since 1975, November has served as a time of 
increased public awareness and understanding of diabetes, as well as a 
time to celebrate the institutions and people that labor year round to 
improve diabetes care. This November, the American Diabetes Association 
has placed a specific focus on increasing care for those affected by 
the disease. As one of the 21 million Americans with diabetes, I truly 
understand the fundamental importance of diabetes awareness, education, 
detection, and research.
  Diabetes is a disease in which the body fails to produce or properly 
use insulin, a necessary hormone needed to process the sugar and 
starches that our bodies use for energy. The disease can lead to a 
series of complications, including increased risk of heart disease

[[Page E2042]]

and stroke. Although research has yet to produce a cure, scientists 
continue to advance diabetes tests and insulin monitors--improving the 
quality of life for many affected by the disease. Advanced education, 
detection, and research are all essential considering that 
approximately one in three Americans born after 2000 will suffer from 
diabetes.
  Continuing to fight the struggle against diabetes, the American 
Diabetes Association participated in World Diabetes Day on November 14, 
2006. The objective was to provide Americans with information on signs 
that show an increased risk of having diabetes. Additionally, the 
worldwide campaign raised awareness in communities around the globe 
that have difficulty assessing the impact of diabetes in their 
respective countries.
  It is my honor to recognize November as the National Diabetes Month 
and thank all those working to improve the quality of life for the 
millions of people affected by the disease. We continually strive to 
increase diabetes awareness and assist those with the disease not only 
during the month of November but at every opportunity throughout the 
year.

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