Researchers Boycott Diabetes Association Over Handling of Ejected Scientists
Members of the American Diabetes Association have initiated a boycott over the removal of five researchers from its annual meeting, citing a lack of apology and independent review. The editors of its flagship journal, Diabetes Care, have suspended manuscript handling in support. The boycott has gathered over 400 signatures from past presidents, award winners, and others pledging to halt ADA-related activities.
The dispute traces to June, when police removed five researchers from the ADA's annual meeting in New Orleans after they distributed an editorial critical of federal research funding cuts. The organization has since offered varying explanations for the removals, initially citing code-of-conduct violations before acknowledging its investigation remains incomplete.
The boycott's reach extends beyond the five researchers. More than 400 signatories, including former ADA presidents and journal editors, have pledged to halt participation in meetings, grant reviews, and manuscript processing. The editors of Diabetes Care have suspended manuscript handling, though the ADA removed their public notice of this suspension.
This boycott could disrupt diabetes research and clinical guidance if sustained. Manuscript delays at Diabetes Care may slow dissemination of new findings, while halted grant reviews could affect funding decisions. Patients and clinicians may face delayed access to emerging research. The dispute also raises questions about how professional medical organizations balance institutional authority with member dissent, potentially influencing how other societies handle internal controversies.