American Diabetes Association Urges Congress to End Government Shutdown to Maintain SNAP Benefits

Strategic Insights -

The American Diabetes Association is highlighting the crucial role of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in supporting Americans with limited financial resources, with nearly 42 million recipients relying on the program for groceries. A lapse in SNAP benefits can lead to food insecurity, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and making it harder to manage the condition. The ADA is urging Congress to end the government shutdown to maintain SNAP assistance, which has been shown to lead to lower diabetes prevalence and reduced reliance on prescription medication.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nearly 42 million Americans receive monthly SNAP benefits, which can be a vital lifeline for those with limited financial resources.
  • SNAP participation can lead to lower increases in diabetes prevalence and reduced reliance on prescription medication to manage care.
  • Food insecurity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, making it harder to manage the condition.
  • The ADA's 2025 Access and Affordability Survey found that 28% of respondents participated in SNAP.
  • Nationally, over 13% of people below the federal poverty level are living with diabetes.
  • The ADA is urging Congress to end the government shutdown to allow SNAP assistance to continue.
  • SNAP has been shown to have positive medical benefits for people living with diabetes, including potential type 2 diabetes remission.

Statistics:

  • 42 million Americans receive monthly SNAP benefits.
  • 28% of respondents in the ADA's 2025 Access and Affordability Survey participated in SNAP.
  • 13% of people below the federal poverty level are living with diabetes nationwide.
  • 136 million Americans are living with diabetes or prediabetes.

Sources:

  • American Diabetes Association (Oct. 30)
  • American Diabetes Association (2025 Access and Affordability Survey)
  • American Diabetes Association (Author's Note: The copyright date listed is 2017, only the Oct. 30 release is provided)