The Lions Diabetes Awareness Program was introduced in 1984. Lions became involved in diabetes education because diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among people between the ages of 20 to 74.

Lions remain active in educating the public about the importance of preventing diabetes by:  

November is Lions Diabetes Education Month. During this month, all Lions clubs, districts, and multiple districts are encouraged to implement diabetes awareness programs.

It is estimated that more than 200 million people have diabetes. They are at risk of losing sight due to diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that transmits visual messages via the optic nerve to the brain. When this delicate tissue is damaged by diabetic retinopathy, the result may be visual impairment or blindness.

Diabetes risk factors

Are you:

If you answered "yes" to one or more of these questions, you may be at risk for diabetes. Millions of people are unaware that they have diabetes. Often, they do not experience any symptoms. However, see your health care professional if you experience:

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