It's a disturbing statistic, and the American Diabetes Association wants to do something about it. Beginning next week, they will launch an extensive advertising campaign warning us about the high rate of diabetes in the United States. The campaign is unusual in that it is directed not only to consumers, but also to members of Congress.

"The 109th Congress failed to provide the leadership necessary to fight the diabetes epidemic - most notably in its substantial under-funding of federal diabetes programs," said Larry Deeb, MD, President, Medicine & Science, American Diabetes Association.

"Every year, diabetes becomes more and more prevalent. As the ads demonstrate, every 21 seconds another American is diagnosed with diabetes. That's why we are urging Congress to join us and take action before it's too late."

The main goal is to increase funding for diabetes research and awareness, certainly a worthy cause. Perhaps we can slow down this ticking time bomb.