On World Diabetes Day, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola emphasized that Europe possesses the necessary resources to tackle the diabetes crisis. However, despite the condition’s vast socio-economic impact and productivity losses, political will remains a significant hurdle.
Euractiv spoke with Chris Delicata and Dr. Sufyan Hussain from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Europe, who outlined their ambitious plan to reshape diabetes care across the continent and advocate for equitable access to treatments.
Delicata highlighted the organization’s primary goal: to center the needs of those living with diabetes. Through advocacy in the European Parliament and partnerships with organizations like WHO Europe, IDF aims to raise awareness and urge the EU to prioritize diabetes within its health agenda. A major focus is ensuring universal access to diabetes care, including cutting-edge treatments such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).
Dr. Hussain emphasized the importance of empowering local advocates to influence their own health systems, thereby ensuring that no one is left behind. Despite growing awareness, Delicata acknowledged that more work is needed to convince lawmakers to place diabetes at the forefront of the EU’s health policy.
The financial strain diabetes places on healthcare systems is staggering, with significant resources directed toward managing the disease and its complications. Both experts argue for a more preventative approach, using emerging technologies, including AI, to improve outcomes and reduce long-term costs. Early intervention and better infrastructure are key to managing the disease effectively and preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes.
While some advancements, such as insulin treatments and CGM devices, have made managing the condition easier, the question of a “cure” remains complex. Both Delicata and Dr. Hussain are cautious about labeling any breakthrough as a cure, though they acknowledge significant strides in research. New therapies and potential stem cell treatments offer hope for reducing the burden on individuals with diabetes, particularly in the prevention of type 1 diabetes and improving type 2 diabetes management.
Diabetes, often overshadowed by more emotive conditions like cancer, faces fierce competition for funding and attention. However, the experts argue that diabetes should be treated with the same urgency, given its role as a risk factor for other life-threatening conditions, such as cancer, kidney failure, and amputations.
Looking ahead, Delicata stresses the importance of turning political commitments into actionable plans, with a focus on comprehensive, long-term solutions. Dr. Hussain calls on European policymakers to invest in prevention, emphasizing that early intervention can prevent the most severe and costly complications of diabetes.
Both agree that the time for action is now. The necessary treatments and tools are available, but the political will to ensure universal access is crucial to improving lives and curbing the growing diabetes crisis in Europe.
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