Public Affairs
Annual Public Affairs Campaigns
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) conducts public education campaigns, including one during Foot Health Awareness Month in April and one in November for Diabetes Awareness Month. To access information about the most recent campaigns, see the information below.
April’s Foot Health Awareness Month in 2025 provides an opportunity for FPMA members to remind their patients that sports-related injuries are something to be aware of.
Pickleball’s popularity continues to soar — more than 36 million Americans are playing. As the number of players continues to increase, so do pickleball-related injuries. Some estimates put the cost of pickleball injuries at $500 million annually. Common foot and ankle injuries include sprains, strains, and fractures; plantar fasciitis (pain in the heel); Achilles tendinitis; as well as nail problems and blisters. So, what can you do to prevent a debilitating injury while enjoying your favorite racquet sport? APMA wants you to Play it Safe during Foot Health Awareness Month (and all year round).
FPMA members can go to https://www.apma.org/patients-and-the-public/foot-health-awareness-month to access tips on preparing to participate in sports like pickleball. The page features information geared toward both patients and podiatrists. FPMA members are encouraged to provide these tips to their patients.
APMA spotlighted November Diabetes Awareness Month with a public education campaign concerning diabetes and foot health. Foot care is part of diabetes care. Whether you’re living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, you have a higher risk of serious complications in your feet, including infection and amputation. You're playing the long game with diabetes, so it's important to establish healthy habits early in your journey to prevent those complications and help keep you active.
The APMA Fall 2024 Diabetes Awareness Month campaign provided individual members and practices with resources via the APMA Digital Tool Kit to promote their expertise and educate current and prospective patients. These downloadable resources include a tip sheet (handout), press release, sample social media posts, and graphics. Campaign information is available at www.apma.org/diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) also has resources available for Diabetes Awareness Month. To access the ADA Toolkit and other information, click HERE.
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