Download logo packWhat is this blue circle?
The universal symbol for diabetes.
The purpose of the diabetes symbol is to give diabetes a common identity.
Until 2006, there was no global symbol for diabetes. It aims to:
- support all existing efforts to raise awareness about diabetes
- inspire new activities, bring diabetes to the attention of the general public
- brand diabetes
- provide a means to show support for the fight against diabetes
Who owns the symbol? The International Diabetes Federation.
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) holds all rights to the blue circle symbol for diabetes.
How can I promote the symbol? By using it.
We encourage everyone to use the symbol for diabetes as a reference to diabetes and the millions of people affected by the disease.We welcome the use of the logo in publications: magazines, video, online information, etc.
The symbol cannot be used without prior permission by IDF. It cannot be used:
- to promote or refer to anything other than diabetes
- as a quality label
- for merchandizing or any other form of commercial aim
- type of organization
- distribution of the material
Where can I find the symbol?
Download the logo in different file formats and sizes.
Can I incorporate the symbol in logos? Yes, as a reference to diabetes and only for non-commercial use.
For any other types of logos, please contact diabetessymbol@idf.org.
Is this a quality label? No.
While this label can be used on any material as a reference to diabetes according to the guidelines mentioned on this page or after approval by IDF, it can not be used as a quality label. Any direct or indirect indication that the diabetes symbol provides a proof of quality is prohibited. IDF cannot be liable to any misuse of the symbol.
I think someone is violating the policies as described above. What should I do?
Please report any violation to diabetessymbol@idf.org. Anonymity is guaranteed.Can you give examples of how the blue circle has been used or can be used?
Some examples include:
- posters
- t-shirts
- flags
- pins (available at http://www.idf.org/bookshop)
- travel bugs (for more information, http://unite.geocaching.com)
- drawings & paintings
Who can I contact for specific questions?
Please direct any questions related to the usage of the blue circle to diabetessymbol@idf.org.
What is the history of the blue circle?
The icon was developed originally for the campaign for a UN Resolution on diabetes.The campaign for a United Nations Resolution on diabetes was a response to the diabetes pandemic that is set to overwhelm healthcare resources everywhere. The campaign mobilised diabetes stakeholders behind the common cause of securing a United Nations Resolution on diabetes. The United Nations passed Resolution 61/255 ‘World Diabetes Day’ on December 20th 2006.
Why a circle?
The circle occurs frequently in nature and has thus been widely employed since the dawn of humankind. The significance is overwhelmingly positive. Across cultures, the circle can symbolize life and health. Most significantly for the campaign, the circle symbolizes unity. Our combined strength is the key element that made this campaign so special. The global diabetes community came together to support a United Nations Resolution on diabetes and needs to remain united to make a difference. As we all know: to do nothing is no longer an option.
Why blue?
The blue border of the circle reflects the colour of the sky and the flag of the United Nations. The United Nations is in itself a symbol of unity amongst nations and is the only organization that can signal to governments everywhere that it is time to fight diabetes and reverse the global trends that will impede economic development and cause so much suffering and premature death.
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