Julia Brownley: “Last year diabetes cost the U.S. economy $245 billion. That number will only continue to climb unless Congress supports…”

“Last year diabetes cost the U.S. economy $245 billion. That number will only continue to climb unless Congress supports critical medical research and treatment initiatives like the Special Diabetes Program. The Special Diabetes Program contributes to groundbreaking research at the National Institutes of Health. Continued investment in this program will bring hope for a cure and a better life to the 26 million Americans living with diabetes. The Special Diabetes Program also funds treatment, education, and prevention programs for American Indian and Alaska Native families who are disproportionately affected by diabetes. We must continue our commitment to fighting this deadly disease. Without a timely, multiyear renewal, work that could save hundreds of thousands of lives is put at risk. I urge my colleagues to support legislation to renew the Special Diabetes Program. ____________________”