Diabetes

Living with Diabetes

Diabetes affects nearly 40 million Americans and can lead to serious health challenges if not well controlled. So while having diabetes can significantly impact a person's well-being, with a focus on management strategies such as dietary changes, it is possible to experience a full and happy life. A primary tool in diabetes control lies in effective blood sugar management. This has been aided in recent years through the introduction of high-tech wearables for more seamless HbA1c measurement. Several new medicines are also now available to help people with diabetes regulate their blood sugar levels. Some of these have the additional benefit of aiding weight loss, which is an important aspect of overall disease management in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Taking control of Diabetes

Managing diabetes requires ongoing commitment and self-discipline. It's essential to work closely with a healthcare team to develop a personalized diabetes management plan and to seek help whenever it may be needed. It is essential to know your body and be able to tune in to any changes with eyesight or in the feet. Regular exercise is highly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that losing weight is one way to help reduce the effects of diabetes. Many people rely on their PCP for diabetes management; others see specialists as needed in the areas of nephrology and/or endocrinology. It is vital to have the support of providers that you feel comfortable around and you can easily schedule visits with, in person or through telemedicine.

Advances in treatment

There are currently more than 500 potential medicines being researched for the treatment of diabetes. Advancing knowledge has increased awareness of how diabetes, weight gain, and risk for heart disease are all related. In recent years, many have hailed the widespread availability of GLP-1 oral and injectable agonists (for example, Ozempic) as a critical advance in how the condition is managed. GLP-1 agonists trigger insulin release, reduce glucose production in the liver, and promote a feeling of fullness. Such a breakthrough wouldn’t have been possible without thousands of diabetes patients volunteering for clinical research studies!

You can get involved

More than 400 million people around the world are impacted by diabetes. There are many opportunities for people with diabetes along with healthy volunteers to contribute to clinical research and help further the development of treatment and prevention options. Want to stay informed about trials near your home. Register with us today!

RECRUITING TRIALS

References

The CDC: The Facts, Stats, and Impacts of Diabetes | CDC
Mayo Clinic: Diabetes - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Healthline.com: Top Diabetes Treatment Advancements in 2023 (healthline.com)