It’s somewhat appropriate that the Hampton Roads Chapter of the American Diabetes Association will hold its chief fundraising event of the year right here in Suffolk this year.

With an age-adjusted diabetes rate nearing 11 percent and an age-adjusted obesity rate above 30 percent, Suffolk is a picture of the dual problems that are among the biggest threats to the health of Americans today.

The American Diabetes Association raises money to educate people about the problem of diabetes, about how to avoid it and about how to deal with it once a diagnosis has been made. Donations to the organization also support research into the disease and its treatment and possible cures. Its biggest fundraiser in support of these goals each year is the Tour de Cure, a bicycle ride through which participants raise donations for the organization.

This year will mark the second time the event has been held in Suffolk. As many as 900 riders are expected to participate, cruising along pre-marked courses of 10 miles, 30 miles, 65 miles and 100 miles.

Suffolk residents can participate as riders by raising at least $175, plus a $25 registration fee. They can also join the effort by volunteering for a number of different rider-support positions. Either way, they will help advance the causes of diabetes research and education, two efforts that have special importance here in Suffolk.

For more information, visit www.diabetes.org/hamptonroadsvatour.