Diabetes Foundation’s Executive Director Fights for Funding and a Healthier New Jersey
On March 25th, Ginine Cilenti, Executive Director of the Diabetes Foundation, testified before the 2025 Assembly and State Budget Committee on behalf of millions of New Jersey residents impacted by diabetes. Her message was clear — the time to act is now.
“Over 4 million people — half of our state’s population — are living with diabetes or prediabetes,” Cilenti shared. “And the burden is only expanding.”
Alarming projections show that Type 1 diabetes (T1D) will increase by 70% by 2040, while Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is expected to rise by 60% by 2035. Nearly 34% of adults in New Jersey live with prediabetes, yet 80% remain unaware of their condition. This crisis doesn’t only affect adults; our children are increasingly at risk.
Noncommunicable diseases, like diabetes, are now the leading cause of death in the U.S., surpassing infectious diseases. However, the burden is not evenly spread across the state. In communities struggling with poverty — like Trenton (19.5%), New Brunswick (15.8%), and Paterson (20.5%) — the prevalence of T2D is disproportionately high. These numbers reflect a harsh reality: Communities of color are suffering the most.
Despite having healthcare provisions in place, many individuals continue to ration their insulin due to the high cost. Diabetes prevention and management education, while covered by insurance, remain underutilized. Even our food pantries, while striving to offer healthier options, lack the resources to provide the nutrition education necessary for sustainable health.
“There are services available — from nonprofits to local health departments — but without adequate resources, widespread change is nearly impossible,” Cilenti stated. The Diabetes Prevention and Control Department at the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) operates with just $1.2 million in federal grants — funding expected to support the entire state.
Cilenti’s appeal was straightforward but urgent. She called for a significant investment in diabetes prevention and management to curb the state’s most pressing health crisis. If New Jersey can prioritize funding for obesity, prediabetes, T1D, and T2D, we can save lives and strengthen communities.
“By getting resources into the hands of those who need them, we can prevent strokes, heart attacks, kidney disease, and amputations — the consequences of uncontrolled diabetes. Together, we can create healthier individuals, families, and a stronger state.”
The Diabetes Foundation extends its gratitude to Governor Phil Murphy, Senator Gordon Johnson, and the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) for their dedication to this cause. The fight for a healthier New Jersey continues, but with the right support, victory is possible.
