A crisis hiding in plain sight

Health District observes American Diabetes Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 4, 2025

LAS VEGAS—In recognition of American Diabetes Month, the Southern Nevada Health District is raising awareness about one of the nation’s most widespread and serious chronic diseases. Diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, and blindness. People with diabetes are also at greater risk of serious complications from flu and COVID-19.

“Diabetes is a public health crisis hiding in plain sight,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Health District. “Knowing your numbers, understanding your risk and learning self-management skills are key steps in preventing or delaying serious complications that can develop from unmanaged diabetes.”

In 2023, 12.8% of adults in Clark County—approximately 238,000 people—had diabetes. Statewide in 2024, an estimated 13.5% of adults—or 345,700 Nevadans—were diagnosed with the disease. Nationwide, more than 41 million Americans are living with diabetes, including 11.7 million who are unaware they have it. Each year, about 1.2 million Americans receive a new diagnosis.

The American Diabetes Association estimates that 816,000 Nevadans have prediabetes—a condition that increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Adults facing food insecurity are significantly more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. This is often due to the necessity of choosing low-cost, high-calorie, and less nutritious foods.

Who Should Get Screened

The Health District and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that the following individuals be screened for diabetes or prediabetes:

Adults age 35 or older.
Adults who are overweight or have obesity.
Anyone who has been previously diagnosed with prediabetes.

Anyone who may be at risk for diabetes should follow up with a healthcare provider. A listing of low-cost clinics that offer diabetes testing and treatment is available at Low-Cost Clinics.

Resources and Programs

The Health District’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion offers no-cost online and in-person classes on diabetes self-management. Taught by trained health educators, the classes are recognized by the American Diabetes Association. Community classes will resume in early 2026 but people are invited to complete a class interest form now in English or Spanish, or call (702) 759-1270. Those who express interest will be contacted as 2026 classes are scheduled. For information on additional classes, events and programs, visit the Get Healthy Clark County Community Calendar. For Spanish classes and events visit the Viva Saludable Community Calendar.

Additional local diabetes resources are available at:

To learn more about American Diabetes Month, visit the American Diabetes Association website.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.