Diabetes Advocacy Day at the Capitol slated for Tuesday, April 29

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Carri Hicks, co-chair of the Legislative Diabetes Caucus, is inviting Oklahomans living with diabetes, their families, and all who are concerned about this disease to come to the state Capitol on Tuesday, April 29 for Diabetes Advocacy Day. The event is aimed at raising awareness about diabetes in Oklahoma and its impact on individuals and communities throughout the state.

Oklahoma has the fourth highest diabetes mortality rate in the nation, and ranks in the top ten states with the highest rate of diabetes. Over 12.6 percent of the state’s adult population has diabetes, and one in four Oklahomans has prediabetes. The cost to Oklahoma is about $3.8 billion every year. It can result in heart disease, blindness, end-stage kidney disease, stroke, amputation, and death.

Hicks, whose son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at just 17 months old, said receiving a diabetes diagnosis is a life-changing event as the individual and family members come to terms with their new reality.

“Suddenly, you’re facing health issues and complications you’d never even considered,” said Hicks, D-Oklahoma City. “It’s frightening and overwhelming, so knowledge is critical in navigating a diabetes diagnosis. That’s why we want to invite everyone to the Capitol to learn more about diabetes, the latest treatments, and meet with their legislators to advocate for greater access to affordable care.”

Diabetes Advocacy Day will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second floor of the Capitol Rotunda, featuring remarks from experts from 11 a.m. until noon, and vendors will provide important information and resources about diabetes management and support until 2 p.m.

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Carri Hicks at 405-521-5543 or Carri.Hicks@oksenate.gov