Using new therapies and interactive technologies to reduce hypoglycemic risk

Hypoglycemia is a common occurrence and one of the greatest fears among many people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). It is defined by a low glucose level with symptoms such as trembling, sweating, confusion and dizziness. The condition can limit a person’s ability to achieve optimal health goals related to diet and physical activity, and can have a profoundly negative impact on quality of life.

Dr. Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret, a JDRF-funded endocrinologist at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal best known for his work on the artificial pancreas, is collaborating on the development of a province-wide registry of people with T1D in Quebec. The registry will enable clinical trials aimed at measuring the impact of new therapies and cost-effective technologies to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.

Known as the BETTER Study (Behaviors, Therapies, Technologies and Hypoglycemia Risk in Type 1 Diabetes), the project will track the incidence of hypoglycemic episodes among patients and employ innovative therapies, such as the use of an online platform that provides educational resources and support tested by registered participants. The study was developed in partnership with individuals with T1D to ensure that it is relevant to their needs.

Dr. Rabasa-Lhoret, along with Dr. Anne-Sophie Brazeau (co-leader) and his team, hope to identify successful measures that can be implemented into the daily care of patients to improve overall blood control, thereby decreasing the risk and burden of hypoglycemia. One of the goals will be to expand this approach to other health care systems to leverage their findings.

Should you wish to access the registry or participate in the BETTER study, click here.

For more informative articles on health and type 1 diabetes, visit our JDRF Blog.

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