The company surveyed 2,250 individuals all over the world over 18 with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Nearly 70% of people with diabetes say they didn’t know where to begin their health journey when first diagnosed. Nearly half say diabetes has limited their ability to pursue a passion or interest.
The data comes as part of Dexcom’s push to recognize World Diabetes Day today, Nov. 14. (For more on World Diabetes Day, read HERE.)
In response, and in recognition of World Diabetes Day and National Diabetes Awareness Month, Dexcom plans to team up with its global brand advocates. That includes singers Nick Jonas, Molly Sandén and Lance Bass, actress Retta, comedian Ed Gamble and more. The company wants to invite people with diabetes to share something they’re striving toward on social media.
By bringing the community together, Dexcom aims to motivate and inspire people with diabetes. The company said its survey found that 85% of respondents believe that taking small steps to managing diabetes can lead to significant improvements in overall wellbeing. Additionally, 84% of current tech users say technology can help those managing diabetes achieve their dreams. That could include the CGM or glucose biosensor made by Dexcom.
“As we build on our legacy of pioneering this industry, we’re committed to helping people at any age and any stage of diabetes receive the information and tools they need to discover what they’re made of,” said Kevin Sayer, president and CEO at Dexcom.
What the data means
Dexcom says the data further emphasizes the importance of technology in helping people better manage their diabetes. The company believes it demonstrates the significance of its own commitment to innovation.
The Dexcom pipeline includes the G7 CGM and Stelo over-the-counter glucose biosensor, plus the Dexcom One+ CGM system in Europe. These products help improve access to life-changing CGM and glucose biosensing, the company says, giving people with diabetes peace of mind.
“At Dexcom, we know better health empowers us all, and I believe World Diabetes Day is the perfect time to change the perception of what’s possible. “Our community of users, caregivers, and physicians have inspired us—and we hope that by delivering critical health information across our portfolio of leading glucose biosensors we’re able to do the same,” Sayer said.
On top of all its initiatives and because of the data, in the U.S., Dexcom planned a giveaway. It aims to inspire those wtih diabetes to take their next step toward a goal, habit or journey.
During the month of November, the company invites people with diabetes to share their aspirations. Examples given by Dexcom included running, committing to learn a new language or signing up for a cooking class. The company plans to randomly select participants to win a $500 prize to jumpstart their journey.
“A diabetes diagnosis can feel isolating,” said Jonas. “With the right support and tools, like Dexcom biosensing technology, it doesn’t have to be. I’m part of a community that’s living proof of what people with all types of diabetes can achieve, and this World Diabetes Day, we hope to inspire others around the world to truly discover what they’re made of—and embrace their full potential to live beyond their diagnoses.”
