Panelists to discuss Addressing Obesity and Diabetes: Strategies for Healthier Lives and Lower Costs
The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) is proud to once again host its annual State of Diabetes: Indiana during American Diabetes Month ® on November 19 at Ivy Tech Conference Center in Indianapolis.
“State of Diabetes: Indiana is an essential event for employers, health care professionals, and community members interested in the health and welfare of all Hoosiers living with diabetes and/or obesity. We invite everyone to attend, network, exchange ideas, and learn about new solutions to create healthier tactics and lower costs,” said Sarah Schmitz, the ADA’s executive director in Indiana.
Nearly 700,000 adults in Indiana, or 11.5% of the adult population, have diagnosed diabetes. Additionally, approximately 2 million adults in Indiana, or 38% of the adult population, have obesity. In America today, obesity accounts for up to 53% of new cases of type 2 diabetes each year.
For 85 years, the ADA has driven diabetes discovery and research. The annual State of Diabetes event serves as a pivotal gathering, uniting employers, industry leaders, health care professionals, and community members in support of the ADA’s mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Increasingly, this includes those living with obesity, as the Obesity Association™, a division of the ADA, expands outreach and education to this population.
On a shared platform, participants will engage with an expert panel in critical discussions on addressing the contemporary landscape of diabetes and obesity, as well as their financial impact on individuals and employers.
Attendees will also:
- Gain key insights from our state-based survey to address community health needs
- Enjoy a networking session and breakout activity
- Receive a practical toolkit with tailored solutions for employers and community members
This year’s event is sponsored by Lilly, Humana Healthy Horizons Indiana, and Delta Dental of Indiana.
“At Humana, our primary focus is the health of both our members and the communities we support,” said DaWana Stubbs, MD, chief medical officer for Humana Healthy Horizons of Indiana. “We are dedicated to providing integrated health care solutions and addressing the social determinants that influence health outcomes, particularly for those managing chronic conditions such as diabetes. Through strong collaborations with our provider network, we ensure our members receive consistent screenings and effective chronic disease management. By prioritizing a holistic approach and considering all aspects of our members’ wellbeing, we strive to empower our communities in reaching their highest potential for health and wellbeing.”
“Oral health is more than just a smile—it’s a vital part of managing chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes. The link between gum disease and blood sugar management is well-established, and treating oral infections can actually help improve glycemic outcomes. By integrating dental care into diabetes management, we empower individuals to take control of their overall health and reduce the risk of complications,” said Jeffery Johnston, DDS, MS, senior vice president and chief science officer for Delta Dental of Indiana.
Over 38 million Americans are living with diabetes, and with health care costs at an all-time high, people with diagnosed diabetes have on average 2.6 times higher medical expenditures than those without. This year’s esteemed panelists will share their expert perspectives on the discussion topic—Addressing Obesity and Diabetes: Strategies for Healthier Lives and Lower Costs. Attendees will learn about new treatments, lifestyle changes, and ways to make diabetes and obesity care more accessible—helping individuals, families, and employers support healthier lives and reduce overall medical costs.
Registration is free. To learn more and register, /SODindiana. Media interested in previewing or attending the event can schedule an interview by emailing press@.
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About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes—and we’re not stopping. There are 136 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn).
