Diabetes continues to rise at an alarming rate across the United States and around the world. From the very beginning, my vision for the 5Plus2 Challenge has been clear: to reduce the number of new diabetes cases and delay the age at which people develop the disease.

Understanding the Challenges:  Through my research into the diabetes epidemic, two important points have become clear. First, there is insufficient understanding of how early lifestyle changes can be a powerful way to fight diabetes. Second, there is a noticeable lack of community-based support initiatives for those facing challenges related to diabetes.

Addressing Barriers:  While many resources are available for people already living with diabetes, far fewer are accessible to the millions who are at high risk of developing the condition. Limited awareness, financial barriers, accessibility challenges, and a lack of family and community support often prevent people from taking action before it is too late.

A Broader Perspective:  My vision is based on a simple belief: diabetes is not just a medical condition—it is also a social issue shaped by our daily habits, our environments, and the communities where we live. If this is true, then the solution must extend beyond the healthcare system and into the heart of our communities.

A Community-Driven Movement:  I imagine a movement driven by the community—one that educates, motivates, and connects individuals and families with the tools, resources, and support needed to prevent diabetes or live well with it.

Building a Supportive Ecosystem:  The 5Plus2 Challenge is designed to create a practical ecosystem by bringing together local resources—dietitians, nutritionists, healthcare providers, educators, and community organizations—and connecting them with the people who need them most. Through free workshops, support meetings, and partnerships with libraries, schools, YMCAs, churches, and other community centers, our aim is to make prevention and support accessible to everyone.

Creating a Culture of Prevention:  Ultimately, my vision is to help create a culture where prevention becomes an everyday part of life and communities take an active role in improving their members’ health and well-being.

I invite you to visit our About Us page, explore How It Works, and learn more about The Oklahoma Model to see how this vision is being put into practice as a community-based strategy for long-lasting change.

Fawad Adil, MBA
Founder, 5Plus2 Challenge