CDC launches new public service announcements as part of prediabetes awareness initiative

Key takeaways:

• The PSAs encourage adults to take a 1-minute prediabetes risk test so they can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
• The initiative has produced 12.7 million test completions since its launch.

The CDC has announced the launch of new public service announcements as part of its ongoing “Do I Have Prediabetes?” initiative to encourage people to learn about prediabetes diagnosis and risks.

According to the agency, more than one in three Americans, or approximately 98 million adults, have prediabetes, but 81% do not know they have it.

“Diabetes is a devastating public health problem, and I cannot overstate the toll that it continues to take on millions of people across the United States,” Christopher Holliday, PhD, MPH, MA, FACHE, director of the CDC’s Division of Diabetes Translation, said in a press release. “Identifying prediabetes is an opportunity for people to change their story and prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.”

Data show that earlier prediabetes diagnoses can result in greater lifestyle changes such as healthier dietary habits and weight management, whereas early treatment can reduce complications, the CDC noted.

The initiative first launched in January 2016. Since then, participants completed more than 12.7 million online and video tests where they learned about their risk for prediabetes.

The “Be Your Own Hero” public safety announcements (PSAs) encourage people to take a 1-minute prediabetes risk test so that they can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, the CDC said.

If a participant receives a high score, the initiative offers resources and encourages them to speak with a physician about receiving a blood test that can confirm a prediabetes diagnosis.

The PSAs will appear across broadcasts, radio, print, social media and digital banners in both English and Spanish through media partnerships. The CDC said it is also working with partners to “amplify” the campaign across communities, using evidence-based material to educate physicians and other health care providers about prediabetes screening, diagnosis and treatment.

“It’s vital that we continue to raise awareness of prediabetes and encourage everyone to learn where they stand,” Holliday said.