Greetings,
I had a wonderful time attending the National Black Caucus of State Legislators
(NBCSL) annual conference that was held last month, in the Big Apple, Brooklyn,
New York. One of the highlights of the conference included; the Health pre-
conference session where, we learned about the disproportionate effects that
diabetes has on African American populations, possible solutions for insulin
affordability and where to receive help if you cannot afford your diabetes
medication.
While there we also discovered, Eli Lilly and Company had recently launched the
Lilly Diabetes Solution Center and Helpline at 1-833-808-1234 to assist people
with insulin affordability. We all have heard horror stories about the high cost of
insulin, especially among African American communities. I look forward to
working with companies like Lilly to help close gaps in health care for
communities of color by reducing the cost of insulin and making sure that
everyone has equal access to their medicines.
The American Diabetes Association estimates that over 30 million Americans are
affected by diabetes and is the seventh leading cause of death in the United
States. In the African American population, studies show that we are
disproportionately affected by diabetes in comparison to the general population.
The rates of diagnosed diabetes among African Americans is 12.7% compared to
7.4% among whites.
Lilly wants to hear from those who have trouble paying or cannot afford their
insulin by calling the helpline. If you are having trouble paying or cannot afford
your insulin medication, please call my office or the Lilly Diabetes Solution Center
Hotline at 1-833-808-1234. Thank you and have a Healthy New Year!
Robin Shackleford
State Representative
House District 98
