Dexcom U Expands to Record 27 Athletes, Signaling Shift in Diabetes…

Event summary

Dexcom U's fifth season features a record 27 college athletes, up from previous years, across 13 sports.
New research indicates a 24% to 16% drop in young adults quitting sports post-diabetes diagnosis, with 85% now participating.
Dexcom U Days events in October will connect youth athletes with collegiate role models, addressing stigma and isolation.
CGM users report significantly lower rates of glucose control difficulties and mental burden compared to later adopters.
The program includes mentorship from elite athletes like Mason Miller (San Diego Padres) and Mark Andrews (Baltimore Ravens).

The big picture

Dexcom U's expansion reflects a broader trend in healthcare and sports, where technology and mentorship are converging to break down barriers for athletes with chronic conditions. The program's growth aligns with increasing investment in diabetes management tools, positioning Dexcom as a leader in both innovation and advocacy. The shift in stigma and participation rates underscores the potential for NIL programs to drive meaningful social change within niche communities.

What we're watching

Program Scalability: Whether Dexcom U can sustain its growth trajectory while maintaining the quality of mentorship and support.
Stigma Reduction: The pace at which visibility of athletes with diabetes translates to broader societal acceptance.
Technology Adoption: How early CGM adoption influences long-term diabetes management outcomes for athletes.