HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson is dedicated to fulfilling HHS' commitment to fighting diabetes in America and abroad. This commitment is especially relevant on the eve of the annual World Diabetes Day on Nov. 14.

Today, about 17 million Americans have diabetes - about one out of every twenty people. And the risk factors for diabetes have only increased.

"All of these facts are too troubling to ignore and too grim to just accept. This was once considered a disease of the middle-aged and elderly - and now we're seeing it in our children. But I'm proud to say, this Administration is not simply accepting them - we're acting to change them, and acting boldly and with energy and focus," Secretary Thompson said.

HHS is working to educate the public through targeted efforts, including campaigns designed to help at-risk minority populations understand what they can do to help prevent diabetes and heart disease. The Secretary's prevention campaign, which educates Americans about the benefits of preventive efforts such as a healthy diet, exercise, and doctor's visits, is also a key component of this effort.