Reframing Diabetes Treatment as Diabetes Prevention

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Diabetes is on the rise globally—according to the American Diabetes Association, there are about 537 million adults worldwide with diabetes, and nearly 38.4 million live in the U.S.¹ These disturbing statistics, coupled with genetic influences for this disease, also point to a pressing need for a greater approach to diabetic care and prevention. Since they observe firsthand the complications of diabetes on feet and lower extremities, podiatrists are uniquely positioned to take a more active role in diabetes prevention and early education.
 
While most podiatrists are well-versed in managing diabetic foot care, they may still miss the crucial opportunity to participate in preventive education, particularly among younger patients. Therefore, I feel it is a golden era for podiatrists to reevaluate how they approach diabetes prevention, particularly when addressing a broader, perhaps younger, population before diabetes complications appear. By starting early, podiatrists can educate young adults not only about lifestyle choices but also about other supportive measures that promote long-term health. Early instruction on topics such as how to eat well not only may reduce the risk of diabetes but can also help create a generation that is more aware of their health choices.²
 
Additionally, the financial burden of diabetes affects not only individual health but places considerable strain on the healthcare system. In 2022, the total cost of diagnosed diabetes in the U.S. soared to an astonishing $412.9 billion, with $306.6 billion attributed to direct medical expenses and $106.3 billion lost due to disability and missed workdays.² These figures highlight the critical need for prevention and early intervention. However, there is optimism: prioritizing prevention can reduce these costs and enhance patient outcomes.

Consequently, significant healthcare savings could be possible by redirecting resources from treatment to prevention. This may decrease the healthcare cost burden in the U.S. and permit funds to be channeled into other crucial public health and social welfare programs simultaneously. This creates the possibility of a double win: the individual and society both benefit.

Given the complexity of diabetes care, an interdisciplinary approach to treatment and prevention, where healthcare professionals collaborate across various specialties, can enhance efficiency, lower costs, and improve patient outcomes. Research indicates that this type of care can save around $40 per patient in outpatient settings and significantly reduce inpatient expenses. For those with diabetes, foot care is essential, as complications such as infections and ulcers can lead to amputations. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, podiatrists can save the healthcare system between $279 and $51 per patient, with diabetic foot care potentially saving billions annually.³ Many podiatrists already collaborate with specialists like vascular surgeons and endocrinologists, and by promoting and being a vital part of more coordinated care, podiatrists can contribute to better patient outcomes, fewer complications, and reduced healthcare costs.

In Conclusion

Podiatrists play a crucial role in helping individuals stay active and independent, enabling them to continue working, engaging in daily activities, and enjoying an improved quality of life. This profession provides a chance to make a meaningful difference for those living with diabetes, promoting their well-being and supporting a home-centered approach to healthcare within the larger framework of national healthcare systems. Although the road ahead is challenging, I remain confident that if we refocus our efforts to include education, prevention, and cooperation, we can positively impact the diabetes pandemic together. If we tackle this issue from all angles, from the classroom to the clinic, we may one day see a global fall in diabetes rates and improvement in public health. By reframing our paradigms of care to include preventive measures, patient education, and team collaboration, we can be part of a positive evolution for those we care for. Together, we can be part of a transformative shift toward better health outcomes for all.
 
Lt. Russell is a student in the Class of 2026 at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine.
 
References
1. American Diabetes Association. Statistics about diabetes. Accessed Feb. 19, 2025.  
2. Parker ED, Lin J, Mahoney T, Ume N, Yang G, Gabbay RA, ElSayed NA, Bannuru RR. Economic costs of diabetes in the U.S. in 2022. Diabetes Care. 2024 Jan 1;47(1):26-43. doi: 10.2337/dci23-0085. PMID: 37909353.
3. American Podiatric Medical Association. Fact sheet: Studies prove podiatrists prevent complications, provide savings. Accessed April 4, 2025.