1. United States
2. Kan.
3. Letter

I am writing to express deep concern over the Trump administration’s decision to abruptly terminate the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study. This landmark 25-year study showed that lifestyle changes could reduce diabetes risk by more than 50 percent and the drug metformin by about 30 percent. Ending it cuts off critical knowledge that has shaped public health strategies against a disease affecting millions of Americans (The New Yorker, April 2025). This move reflects a broader trend of cuts to scientific research, including reductions at the National Institutes of Health that have halted vital studies on diseases like HIV, Alzheimer’s, cancer, and diabetes. These cuts not only jeopardize public health but risk a brain drain as leading researchers leave for countries that value science (Business Insider, April 2025). The administration has also restricted scientists from speaking publicly and consolidated research institutions, undermining scientific independence. Former NIH Director Francis Collins recently warned that these actions are weakening American leadership in innovation and medicine (Axios, April 2025). I urge you to defend critical research programs that protect public health and drive innovation. Allowing short-sighted political decisions to dismantle decades of progress endangers the well-being of every American.