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JDRF-CIHR Partnership to Defeat Diabetes: Using new therapies and interactive technology to reduce hypoglycemic risk

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a critical concern among many Canadians living with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

The BETTER (BEhaviors, Therapies, TEchnologies and hypoglycemic Risk in type 1 diabetes) study is focused on measuring and reducing hypoglycemia in people with T1D. Hypoglycemia is common and one of the greatest fears in people living with the disease. It is defined by low blood glucose with symptoms such as trembling, sweating, confusion, and dizziness. Hypoglycemia and fear of hypoglycemia are the main barriers to optimal T1D management and can have a profoundly negative impact on quality of life.

Dr. Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret and his team at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM) have developed a registry of people with T1D that is helping them better identify the needs and realities related to the disease. The registry currently includes more than 1800 people with T1D in Quebec. They are also conducting several small trials testing innovative approaches for hypoglycemia treatment, including an interactive online platform that provides virtual resources and opportunities to connect with others living with T1D.

Our main goal is to identify successful measures that can be implemented daily to improve overall blood control,” says Dr. Rabasa-Lhoret. “It is our hope that this registry, as well as subsequent clinical trials aimed at optimizing technologies and therapies, will help reduce the risk and burden of hypoglycemia.

The pandemic could have slowed progression of the study. But Dr. Rabasa-Lhoret and his team were able to quicky pivot and increase accessibility of their virtual support platform for people with T1D in Quebec during COVID.