Jimmy Carter

“ A major national effort is underway among Federal agencies, State and local governments, academic institutions and voluntary health organizations to combat diabetes and its complications, which so often compromise the quality of life of its victims. There is optimism in the scientific community that research is leading to greater understanding and improved methods of treatment for diabetes and its complications. ”

“ Diabetes mellitus affects the lives of 10 million Americans. Each year, 35,000 Americans die from this disease, and many times that number fall victim to heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, blood vessel disease and blindness related to diabetes. Diabetes now costs the country more than $6 billion annually in health care expenses, disability payments and lost wages. ”