Becoming a parent often changes how adults think about their health, but for former *NSYNC singer Lance Bass, a diabetes diagnosis has brought an entirely new perspective. The father of five-year-old twins Violet and Alexander says managing his condition has taught him important lessons about self-care, vulnerability, and setting an example for his children.
Bass, 47, has been reflecting on how living with diabetes has changed his approach to raising his twins with husband, Michael Turchin. Originally diagnosed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the singer says managing his condition has made him more conscious of the importance of looking after himself.
His experience has also changed how he thinks about the example he sets for his children. Rather than hiding his health challenges, Bass wants Violet and Alexander to understand that taking care of yourself is an important part of being there for the people you love.
In an open letter for Dexcom’s “A Letter to Diabetes” initiative, Bass explained that he hopes his children learn that “vulnerability is strength.” Bass’ diagnosis has helped him become more patient and attentive to his health and family.
What Has Lance Bass Done Differently?
Bass initially believed he had Type 2 diabetes and made dietary changes and adjusted his medication to manage the condition. However, when those changes didn’t produce the expected results, he advocated for himself and eventually learned he had latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), also called Type 1.5 diabetes.
Living with the condition means paying closer attention to his body, following his treatment plan and making health management part of his everyday routine. He also recognizes that asking for help is an important lesson his children can learn from watching him.
Speaking about his experience, Bass explained that he wants his twins to understand that “taking care of ourselves is one of the ways we show love.” Bass hopes being open about his health will encourage his children to approach their own challenges without shame.
How Many American Adults Have Diabetes?
Bass’ experience reflects a much larger public health issue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 40.1 million Americans had diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes in 2023.
That represents approximately 12% of the U.S. population. Of those individuals, 28.8 million diagnosed cases involved adults aged 18 and older.
The CDC also estimates that 11 million American adults have diabetes without knowing it. Additionally, 115.2 million adults have prediabetes, demonstrating why awareness, early detection, and ongoing health management are so important.
