The FDA chief is right: we are failing people with diabetes

‘The ADA remains in control of diabetes policy in this country, and dissenting voices have a difficult time being heard.’ Photograph: The Washington Post/Getty Images

A funny thing happened when Dr Robert Califf, the Food and Drug Administration commissioner, delivered the keynote address to the American Diabetes Association’s annual scientific session last month – he told the truth about our country’s colossal failure to treat the raging health crisis.

“For the larger epidemic of type 2 diabetes, we’re failing right now,” Califf said. “I don’t say that lightly.”