Wednesday February 2, 2022 – JDRF Canada is excited to share that the Alberta government has announced that they will provide public coverage for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who are under the age of 18. To qualify, individuals must be enrolled in the province’s non-group coverage or satisfy a means test to demonstrate low-income.
“We applaud the Alberta government’s decision to provide CGM devices to those living with type 1 diabetes who are under 18. We encourage the government’s ongoing expansion of the age of eligibility for these live-saving devices for Albertans living with T1D” says Dave Prowten, President and CEO, JDRF Canada.
T1D self-management is made easier through technologies such as CGMs which provide real-time readings that help to improve overall blood glucose (HbA1C) and time in target range (TIR), keeping more people out of hospital, and reducing longer-term complications. Better self-management and glucose control also helps to relieve some of the anxiety that surrounds the disease. It allows people with T1D to better plan exercise, meals, and rest. Universal coverage of CGM would increase the number of people living free of complications by an estimated 7,400 and decrease mortality by an estimated 11,500.
“Patient choice continues to be a priority for JDRF’s Access for All campaign. T1D is a complex disease that affects people very differently, so we hope that in the future, the Flash GM will be covered in Alberta as well. It is important that patients, in consultation with their health care providers, decide on their best course of treatment, and not be limited simply due to what is covered” adds Prowten.
Since JDRF launched its Access for All campaign in 2019, we have seen significant commitment from provincial and territorial governments to improve access due to the cost-benefit and quality of life outcomes these devices undeniably provide. We laud the Alberta government for recognizing this need, and welcome today’s announcement as another win for the T1D community.
JDRF also credits the efforts of JDRF’s incredible advocacy volunteers who make up the Alberta provincial advisory group for helping raise awareness through the Access for All campaign about the need for provincial coverage by educating and informing decisionmakers of the benefits of funding these technologies. JDRF believes that patient choice is paramount to better T1D management. The organization will continue to advocate until there is universal access to advanced glucose monitoring devices and insulin pumps for all Canadians living with T1D.
Toronto, ON — December 8, 2021 – JDRF Canada, the largest Canadian charitable funder of type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, and the UBC Faculty of Medicine are proud to announce the establishment of Canada’s first JDRF Centre of Excellence in T1D research at the University of British Columbia.
Exclusively focused on research to cure T1D, the Centre is a key pillar of JDRF Canada’s $100M Campaign to Accelerate that launched earlier this year and is among only five such Centres worldwide. A $10M fundraising campaign is currently underway to support the Centre, and with more than fifty percent already raised, an ambitious research program has begun.
JDRF Centres of Excellence – Established to Fuel Discovery
JDRF Centres of Excellence provide a research funding model that fosters highly dynamic and nimble work to drive discovery with maximum speed. In contrast to conventional research granting mechanisms, a Centre of Excellence adopts a highly collaborative approach that brings together a large team of experts from diverse fields and recruits new talent to accelerate T1D advances. This allows researchers to drive multiple projects in parallel, pivot quickly to the most promising research, yet remain focused on a unified goal of a cure for T1D.
This model is extremely cost-effective because it leverages and streamlines existing research facilities and talent. By removing the capital costs of developing a new physical space, the Centre of Excellence model ensures that philanthropic investment is directed to research rather than overhead. In line with its cure-focused global research strategy, JDRF maintains a 360-degree view of the work at all its Centres to prioritize the science that holds the most promise for the T1D community.
The JDRF Centre of Excellence at UBC
The JDRF Centre of Excellence at UBC is rooted in collaboration, uniting the expertise of world-leading UBC researchers and partnerships with industry, health care, government and academia for a singular purpose: curing T1D. The Centre will foster rapid progress and efficient translation of discoveries in the lab to clinical solutions for Canadians living with T1D.
The goal of the Centre’s research team is to bring two or more new solutions to cure or slow the progression of T1D to the clinical testing stage within just five years. Five research leadsand more than 35 other researchers, trainees, technical staff and collaborators will be involved in driving the Centre’s research projects.
JDRF would like to acknowledge our campaign co-chairs Rob Fiorvento and Dan Miller, as well as our campaign cabinet members Kim Lucas, Mary Jane Devine and Michelle Tice, for their leadership and vision.
We would also like to recognize and thank several donors who have made leadership gifts that brought the Centre to reality: Joseph and Rosalie Segal, Wendy Benyk and Ray Maher, Jim Pattison, and the WB Family Foundation.
Dave Prowten, President and CEO JDRF Canada:
“The JDRF Centre of Excellence is a unique model that will develop and define new ways of moving research forward and will cultivate future leaders in type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. We are extremely excited to partner with this exceptional team because they bring multi-faceted expertise to accelerate the integrated study of the immune system and beta cells and their complex interactions – which we are confident will fuel the path towards a cure.”
Dr. Dermot Kelleher, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Vice-President of Health, UBC:
“Launching Canada’s first JDRF Centre of Excellence at UBC’s Faculty of Medicine is a meaningful opportunity for collaboration that will accelerate discovery and innovation toward a cure for type 1 diabetes. Our shared vision to prioritize team science will speed up the development of accessible immune therapies that alleviate dependence on insulin and ultimately improve health outcomes for patients with type 1 diabetes.”
Dr. Bruce Verchere, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Professor, Faculty of Medicine UBC and Director, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics and Irving K Barber Chair in Diabetes Research:
“The JDRF Centre of Excellence at UBC will transform T1D research in Canada, sparking new collaborations, removing barriers, and accelerating progress toward a cure. I am tremendously proud to be working alongside my Centre co-leads; Drs. James Johnson, Megan Levings, Francis Lynn and JDRF’s Dr. Sarah Linklater, to put an end to T1D within our sights.”
About JDRF
JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our goal is to raise funds to support the most advanced international T1D research and progressively remove the impact of this disease from people’s lives – until we achieve a world without it. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners and is the only organization with the scientific resources, regulatory influence, and a working plan to better treat, prevent, and eventually cure T1D. For more information, please visit jdrf.ca.
About UBC’s Faculty of Medicine
Ranked among the world’s top medical schools with the fifth-largest MD enrollment in North America, the UBC Faculty of Medicine is a leader in both the science and the practice of medicine. Guided by our vision—to transform health for everyone—our faculty members, learners, staff and alumni are accelerating discovery and creating pathways to better health for communities at home and around the world. Through collaboration with our partners, we strive to meet the demands of today and tomorrow, bringing real and lasting hope to people everywhere. For more information, visit med.ubc.ca or follow us on Twitter @UBCmedicine.
Media contacts:
Michelle Van Vliet National Director, Marketing and Communications JDRF Canada 647.459.7881 mvanvliet@jdrf.ca
Brett Goldhawk Communications and Media Relations Manager UBC Faculty of Medicine 778-952-7858 brett.goldhawk@ubc.ca
To mark November’s National Diabetes Awareness Month, JDRF is excited to announce a new investment of $7 million to support four Canadian research teams as part of the JDRF-CIHR Partnership to Defeat Diabetes. These grants will help to accelerate development of stem cell-based therapies for type 1 diabetes (T1D), improve pediatric diabetes research across Canada, as well as our understanding of variations in human insulin production.
This funding announcement is part of the Team Grants in Diabetes Mechanisms and Translational Solutions competition announced by CIHR, an investment of $20M in 10 research projects. Diabetes Canada, Kidney Foundation of Canada, and the FRQS have also received funding as part of this competition, as all work together to improve health outcomes for Canadians.
The funded researchers, including those funded through the JDRF-CIHR Partnership to Defeat Diabetes will work to develop new approaches to preventing, treating, and delivering care to people living with diabetes. Researchers will also work with patient partners—people with lived experience of diabetes—to ensure that the research being conducted is relevant and valuable to the people and families who are affected.
JDRF is matching the $3.5 million investment from CIHR for a total of $7 million to fund four research teams – doubling the impact on T1D research. As we honour the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin, this investment will help fuel promising research that will move us beyond insulin towards cures.
“JDRF is proud to partner with CIHR to accelerate research into a cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D). This year we commemorate 100 years of insulin and recognize the need to move beyond insulin therapy for as many as 300,000 Canadians currently living with T1D. This research will reduce the impact and burden on people affected by the disease, and help us achieve our ultimate goal, a world free from T1D. We are grateful to our community and donors for enabling our $3.5 million investment that will be matched by CIHR to help us attain this goal.”
– Dave Prowten, President and CEO, JDRF Canada
The JDRF-CIHR Partnership to Defeat Diabetes is a landmark collaboration between the Government of Canada, through CIHR, that began in 2017 with a $15M investment that was matched by JDRF to support transformative T1D research. This unique partnership ensures that T1D remains a priority in Canadian health research and is based on a shared vision of improved care, treatment, outcomes and cures for those living with the disease.
Since its inception, this partnership has funded several innovative clinical trials and translational research projects with a view to accelerating the development of novel treatment approaches for people with T1D, in addition to cures for the disease.
These new cutting-edge projects promise to further push forward JDRF’s mission of improving lives and finding cures.
A deep phenotyping network for understanding human islet variation in health and diabetes
Dr. Patrick MacDonald, NominatedPrincipal Investigator: Canada Research Chair; University of Alberta, along with his team: Dr. James D. Johnson, (University of British Columbia) Dr. Jennifer Bruin, (Carleton University) and Dr. Jianguo (Jeff) Xia, (McGill University).
Summary
Insulin is the primary hormone responsible for controlling blood sugar levels. It is produced by the pancreatic islets of Langerhans, rises after a meal to promote energy storage, and falls during fasting to allow energy mobilization. The levels of insulin in the blood vary tremendously amongst people. Nutrition, age, sex, genetics, and environmental exposures are all important factors likely to impact insulin levels. However, the underlying mechanisms by which these factors affect islet insulin production at the cellular level are not clear.
This team seeks to understand the variability in human islet function in relation to genetic and environmental impacts on diabetes risk and to identify mechanisms of islet dysfunction in diabetes. To do this they will take advantage of extensive data on the molecular, cellular, and physiological function of islets from human organ donors. They will also produce tools and resources so that other researchers can explore this data to answer their own questions about islet dysfunction in diabetes.
Building CAPACIty for pediatric diabetes research and quality improvement across Canada
Dr. Shazhan Amed, Nominated Principal Investigator: B.C Children’s Hospital, along with her team: Dr. Meranda Nakhla, (Montreal Children’s Hospital; McGill University), Dr. Julia von Oettingen, (Montreal Children’s Hospital; McGill University) and Dr. Ian Zenlea, (Trillium Health Partners; University of Toronto).
Summary
Although there have been many advances in diabetes care since insulin was discovered 100 years ago, youth with diabetes continue to have a higher risk of other health problems, a lower quality of life, and a shorter life span than their peers without diabetes. This health gap is likely in part due to suboptimal access to and delivery of their diabetes care, which is worse in disadvantaged populations across Canada. This project will develop strategies to address these gaps.
The CAnadian PediAtric diabetes ConsortIum (CAPACIty) is a network of 15 childhood diabetes centers from across Canada. They are partnering with patients/families and health care professionals to jointly design and develop a Canada-wide childhood diabetes registry and research platform. The registry will enable them to improve diabetes care and health outcomes for Canadian youth through comparison of diabetes care quality and outcomes between Canadian diabetes centers, quality improvement initiatives, patient-informed research initiatives across Canada, and successful advocacy work.
They anticipate that the CAPACIty registry will not only lead to better health outcomes but also serve as a powerful tool for governments and decision-makers to implement policy decisions that are driven by our data. Lastly, the patient advisory board will ensure better representation of youth with diabetes and their parents among provincial and national associations that advocate for people living with diabetes.
This is the first announcement of two of four grants total. The second two grants will be announced later this winter.
November 15, 2021 (Ottawa/Toronto) JDRF Canada and Canada’s Stem Cell Network are pleased to announce the JDRF-SCN National Fellowship Program in Type 1 Diabetes, a new opportunity for high-calibre postdocs from across Canada with expertise in stem cells, regenerative medicine, immunology or related fields to join the JDRF Centre of Excellence at the University of British Columbia (UBC) to pursue research focused on treating and curing type 1 diabetes (T1D).
T1D is an autoimmune disease that affects the daily lives of approximately 300,000 Canadians. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. While 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin and the 60th anniversary of the discovery of stem cells, and despite much progress made to tackle this disease, T1D remains a tremendous economic and health burden for thousands of Canadians and their families.
The new JDRF-SCN National Fellowship Program in Type 1 Diabetes aims to attract promising postdoctoral researchers to help accelerate Canadian research, develop talent and enhance Canada’s global leadership in T1D research.
“SCN has been a driver in the quest to find a cure for type 1 diabetes for the last 20 years,” said Cate Murray, SCN’s Executive Director and COO. “Our collaborative cross-Canada network has been leading the charge to develop life-changing therapies for this highly debilitating disease. SCN is excited to work with JDRF, a valued partner in this initiative.”
“We are delighted to be partnering with SCN to support postdoctoral fellowships through the JDRF Centre of Excellence at UBC launching this winter,” says Dave Prowten, President and CEO of JDRF Canada. “The Centre is an initiative focused on cure research with a unique and multidisciplinary training program that will give rise to future leaders in Canadian type 1 diabetes research.”
Launching in January 2022, the Fellowship Program will award one yearlong fellowship per year through 2026, with a value of $60,000 CAD per year.
Anticipated timeline:
Launch of request for applications: January 14, 2022
Application deadline: April 15, 2022 at 17:00 ET
Funding decision: July 4, 2022
Latest fellowship start date in Vancouver: Sept 15, 2022
About the Stem Cell Network: The Stem Cell Network (SCN) is a national not-for-profit organization that supports three main objectives: stem cell and regenerative medicine research; training the next generation of highly qualified personnel; and supporting the knowledge mobilization and transfer of stem cell and regenerative medicine research. From the lab to the clinic, our goal is to power science that will benefit Canadians. SCN was created in 2001. With support from the Government of Canada, the Network has grown from a few dozen labs to more than 196 world-class research groups, supporting 200+ research projects and 24 clinical trials. Since its inception, 21 biotech companies have been catalyzed and more than 4,000 highly qualified personnel have been trained. In 2021, the Government of Canada demonstrated its continuing trust and support in SCN with an investment of $45 million for the 2022–25 period.
About JDRF: JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our goal is to raise funds to support the most advanced international T1D research and progressively remove the impact of this disease from people’s lives – until we achieve a world without it. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners and is the only organization with the scientific resources, regulatory influence, and a working plan to better treat, prevent, and eventually cure T1D. For more information, please visit jdrf.ca.
Toronto, ON — November 10, 2021 – JDRF Canada, the leading organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, is marking November and National Diabetes Awareness Month (NDAM) with a new Monster Tamer Campaign. T1D is an autoimmune disease that many have said can feel like living with a monster – a monster that requires you to make up to 300 life or death decisions every day about eating, activity, rest and more just to maintain blood sugar levels.
For over 100 years, we’ve been taming the T1D monster with tools like insulin, glucose monitors, and fast acting carbohydrates like juice boxes. But as we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin here in Toronto, we recognize that now is the time to move beyond insulin and accelerate research towards cures and finally defeat the T1D monster, once and for all.
“For most children, a juice box is something that they have in their lunch for school, but for those living with T1D it is so much more,” says JDRF President and CEO Dave Prowten. “A juice box can be an emergency tool that helps regulate blood sugar and can halt the symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) that can make those living with T1D sick, and even lead to more serious repercussions. That is why with our new campaign we have made the connection to juice boxes being a “monster tamer”, and our goal this NDAM is to raise awareness of how challenging living with T1D really is.”
Throughout November, JDRF is encouraging Canadians impacted by T1D to share their stories by describing their personal T1D monsters on social media using the hashtag #MyT1DMonster or by submitting them online at breakthrought1d.ca/t1dmonster.
Additionally, to mark World Diabetes Day on November 14, important landmarks and public buildings will be lit in blue across the country, including Toronto’s CN Tower, the Calgary Tower and British Columbia’s Canada Place, along with numerous City Halls. World Diabetes Day is recognized globally to raise awareness for the disease and falls on the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1921.For more information about JDRF’s Monster Tamer campaign visit breakthrought1d.ca/T1Dmonster.
About JDRF
JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our goal is to raise funds to support the most advanced international T1D research and progressively remove the impact of this disease from people’s lives – until we achieve a world without it. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners and is the only organization with the scientific resources, regulatory influence, and a working plan to better treat, prevent, and eventually cure T1D. For more information, please visit jdrf.ca.
Media contact:
Vanessa Parent National Bilingual Marketing and Communications Specialist JDRF Canada 514-262-6346 vparent@jdrf.ca
The Sun Life Ride to Defeat Diabetes for JDRF invites people across Canada to raise funds to support type 1 diabetes research
TORONTO, Oct 5, 2021 – One of Canada’s top fundraising events will be taking place on October 7, 2021. For the second straight year, the Sun Life Ride to Defeat Diabetes for JDRF will be a virtual, high-energy corporate fitness event, bringing out the friendly, competitive spirit of Canadians. The event will offer a fun corporate team building experience – with the goal of turning type 1 diabetes (T1D) into type none.
This year is particularly special as we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin. While a historic milestone that changed the outcomes for millions of people with diabetes, it remains the only treatment for the disease and is not a cure. That is why JDRF is continuing to pursue the most promising T1D research to move us beyond insulin towards cures.
Corporate Canada will move for a cure by spinning on a stationary bike, stretching with a yoga routine, or breaking a sweat at a fitness class during the hour-long virtual event. Participants will join their colleagues in an immersive experience featuring a dynamic opening show, industry fundraising challenges, networking lounges, sponsor booths and contests. Funds raised will help advance ground-breaking research that will make a positive difference for as many as 300,000 Canadians and their families touched by T1D.
“We are once again bringing the excitement and energy of our Ride to people’s homes and giving corporate Canada a unique way to come together to team build, enjoy a healthy break during the busy workday, and most importantly, bring us closer to a cure for T1D,” said Dave Prowten, President and CEO of JDRF Canada. “We are relying on the power of corporate Canada to help reach our $1.8 million goal, which will help us to accelerate the pace of T1D research.”
Sun Life has been a proud supporter of the Ride since 2017, and in 2019 they became the national title sponsor. Sun Life is committed to supporting the over 422 million people worldwide living with the disease.
“Millions of people are living with or at risk of developing diabetes. The discovery of insulin 100 years ago drastically changed the treatment, but there is still no cure. That is why the Sun Life Ride to Defeat Diabetes is so important. The Ride raises funds for type 1 diabetes research, innovation and care initiatives,” said Jacques Goulet, President, Sun Life Canada. “Supporting organizations like JDRF is one way we are making a difference for people affected by diabetes and helping them live healthier lives. Since 2012, we have proudly committed more than $38 million globally in support of diabetes awareness, prevention, care and research initiatives.”
About JDRF Canada
JDRF is the leading charitable organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our goal is to raise funds to support the most advanced international T1D research and progressively remove the impact of this disease from people’s lives – until we achieve a world without T1D. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners and is the only organization with the scientific resources, regulatory influence, and a working plan to better treat, prevent, and eventually cure type 1 diabetes. JDRF is the largest charitable funder of and advocate for research to cure, prevent and treat T1D in the world. For more information, please visit breakthrought1d.ca.
Sun Life in the community At Sun Life, we are committed to building sustainable, healthier communities for life. Community wellness is an important part of our sustainability commitment, and we believe that by actively supporting the communities in which we live and work, we can help build a positive environment for our clients, employees, advisors, and shareholders. Our philanthropic support focuses on health, with an emphasis on diabetes awareness, prevention, and care initiatives; and mental health, supporting programs and organizations with a focus on building resilience and coping skills.
We also partner with sports properties in key markets to further our commitment to healthy and active living. Our employees and advisors take great pride in volunteering close to 12,000 hours each year and contribute to making life brighter for individuals and families across Canada.
TORONTO, September 28, 2021 — 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin in Toronto. Earlier this year, in honour of this anniversary, JDRF Canada, the largest charitable funder of type 1 diabetes (T1D) research in Canada, launched its $100M Campaign to Accelerate to build upon a long legacy of outstanding Canadian diabetes research, accelerating towards cures and improving the lives of those living with T1D. Today, JDRF Canada is launching a key pillar of its $100M Campaign to Accelerate and announcing a $2M fundraising campaign to support the development of its first mental health strategy.
T1D is an autoimmune disease that can be diagnosed at any age, but frequently presents in childhood. People living with T1D must follow a strict lifelong treatment plan that includes constant blood sugar monitoring, counting carbohydrates and taking insulin multiple times a day to stay alive. T1D can also affect a person’s emotional, social, and behavioural wellbeing throughout their lifetime, known collectively as psychosocial health. For example, one in five youth with T1D suffer from anxiety and, compared to those without the condition, people with diabetes are more likely to experience depression or develop an eating disorder.
“Mental health needs to be a larger part of care, especially for teens with diabetes. There is so much pressure socially, academically and hormonally and it’s hard to find anyone who understands the difficulty of managing diabetes on top of all of that”. Jenna, JDRF Youth Ambassador, diagnosed with T1D at age 12.
Traditional care of T1D primarily focuses on glucose control and mental health challenges of those living with the condition are often overlooked, which can contribute to poor overall health outcomes.
“Mental health challenges together represent one of the most pervasive health issues affecting Canadians today. When you add a chronic condition like T1D, feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are often amplified, which can negatively affect physical health,” says Dr. Sarah Linklater, Chief Scientific Officer of JDRF Canada. “With a clear indication of the mental health strain this disease has on people living with T1D and the obvious gaps in care, it’s time to take action and that’s why we are raising $2M and launching our first mental health strategy.”
JDRF Canada’s mental health strategy will initially include five areas of focus: funding research to test psychosocial interventions, providing education about psychosocial issues in diabetes to health care providers, supporting postdoctoral fellowships for clinical psychologists in training, providing support and resources for people living with T1D, and developing a virtual training program about diabetes for registered mental health care providers. Impact in all of these areas will be amplified through partnerships with various diabetes and mental health organizations, some of which will extend the reach of these programs to people living with type 2 diabetes.
With the help of donors and our initial partners including Brain Canada, BD, iA Financial Group, Canucks for Kids and The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, JDRF is well-positioned to take the lead on addressing gaps in care and tackling one of the most pervasive health issues facing Canadians with diabetes today. Together, we will provide a unified approach to helping families across Canada cope with all aspects of T1D.
About JDRF Canada
JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research. Our goal is to raise funds to support the most advanced international type 1 diabetes research and progressively remove the impact of this disease from people’s lives – until we achieve a world without type 1 diabetes. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners and is the only organization with the scientific resources, regulatory influence, and a working plan to better treat, prevent, and eventually cure type 1 diabetes. JDRF is the largest charitable funder of and advocate for research to cure, prevent and treat T1D in the world. For more information, please visit jdrf.ca.
Health Canada has recalled a single lot of Eli Lilly Glucagon, as it may be contaminated. The lot number is D239382A, expiry May 10, 2022. Please check your glucagon kits and return it to the pharmacy if you have a vial with this lot number. All other lot numbers are fine.
This past spring, the province committed to providing public coverage for advanced glucose monitors, including continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and flash glucose monitoring (Flash GM) for people with T1D up to age 25. The commitment also included expanded coverage under the Manitoba Pediatric Insulin Pump Program by changing the eligible age limit from under 18 to under 25.
Manitoba is now rolling out their commitment and implementation of the program. Those 25 and under can access coverage for advanced glucose monitors effective September 28, 2021, and in November, 2021 for insulin pumps.
The self-management of diabetes can be made easier through technologies such as insulin pumps, CGMs and Flash GMs which improve overall blood glucose (HbA1C) and time in target range (TIR), through more accurate and timely readings – keeping more people out of hospital and reducing longer-term diabetes related complications. In addition, a recent JDRF-funded research study demonstrated that using a CGM reduces neonatal health complications and is a viable option for pregnant individuals with diabetes and their babies.
“JDRF Canada welcomes the expansion of access to insulin pumps and continuous and flash glucose monitoring devices for those living with type 1 diabetes in Manitoba. As these devices are critical in preventing life-threatening complications and improving health outcomes in people with T1D, we’re very pleased that the Manitoban government has stepped up and fulfilled their budget commitment. These devices will help Manitobans with type 1 diabetes to lead healthier, safer and easier lives until a cure is found,” says Dave Prowten, President and CEO, JDRF Canada.
“In the absence of government support, people living with diabetes pay out of pocket to manage the rising, additional costs associated with their disease management. This could be upwards of $15,000 per year for one individual and will only increase the divide between those who can and those who cannot afford these technologies,” adds Prowten.
In the past three years, there has been significant commitments from seven provincial and territorial governments to improve diabetes device access as they have realized the cost-benefit and quality of life outcomes these devices undeniably provide.
JDRF will continue to advocate to improve access to advanced glucose monitoring devices and insulin pumps for all Canadians living with T1D as part of our Access for All campaign.
JDRF Canada and Brain Canada are pleased to announce the JDRF Canada – Brain Canada Addressing Mental Health in Type 1 Diabetes Team Grants, a new funding opportunity for Canadian researchers that aims to address mental health concerns in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).
2021 marks the 100th anniversary since the discovery of insulin in Canada. Insulin has saved and improved millions of lives worldwide, but T1D remains a burdensome disease, with substantial risk complications and a shortened life-expectancy, reported difficulties with self-management, and additional factors such as social stigma. As a result, people with T1D are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety and eating disorders, with a consequent negative impact on diabetes management and health outcomes.
“Solutions within and outside of the health care system are urgently needed to address mental health in people with type 1 diabetes,” says Dr. Viviane Poupon, CEO and President of Brain Canada. “This program is aligned with Brain Canada’s mental health research initiative, which focuses on developing and implementing effective strategies that address the diverse needs for mental health care.”
To help address this gap, JDRF Canada and Brain Canada have forged a new partnership and are preparing a call to the Canadian research community for research proposals related to the development, validation, or implementation of interventions that address mental health concerns in people with type 1 diabetes. The goal is to support the development and testing of sustainable, scalable approaches that will enable improved support for people who live with T1D and are affected by certain mental health disorders, and that will translate into better quality of life and diabetes-related health outcomes for these populations.
“In 2021, JDRF Canada is poised to launch several initiatives focused on mental health for Canadians with T1D, and funding new research in this area is a core component of our plans,” says Dr. Sarah Linklater, Chief Scientific Officer of JDRF Canada.
Launching in July 2021, the JDRF Canada – Brain Canada Addressing Mental Health in Type 1 Diabetes Team Grants is intended to fund two multidisciplinary Canadian research teams with grants of up to $250,000 each over two years.
JDRF Canada and Brain Canada are committed to excellence through equity and encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds to apply.
This funding opportunity has been made possible with the financial support of JDRF Canada’s donors and Health Canada, through the Canada Brain Research Fund, an innovative partnership between the Government of Canada (through Health Canada) and Brain Canada.
Anticipated timeline:
Launch of Request for Applications: July 15, 2021 Webinar for applicants: July 28, 2021, 12:00 ET click here to register Registration deadline: September 15, 2021 at 17:00 ET
“JDRF is grateful for the leadership the BC government has shown in taking this step towards Access for All and moving to cover continuous glucose monitoring under BC Pharmacare,” said Dave Prowten, President and CEO of JDRF Canada.
British Columbia announced today that it will begin covering Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for those requiring insulin therapy aged 2+ who meet eligibility criteria. This coverage is effective as of June 11, 2021. An estimated 20,000 British Columbians are expected to qualify helping them better manage their disease.
British Columbia joins Quebec, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Yukon in covering CGM for some or all with type 1 diabetes. Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan and the Yukon also cover Flash GM.
In BC, Dexcom G6 sensors and receivers will be fully covered for those whose family income is <$30K annually or who are on government assistance and mostly covered for everyone else. Eligibility criteria are fairly broad and the government expects some 20K people to qualify.
To obtain coverage people will need their health care provider to complete a Special Authority Request form and issue them a 12-month prescription for the Dexcom G6 which they can take to their local pharmacy. The Dexcom G6 will be subject to the Pharmacare deductible. Until the deductible is reached they can expect to pay $10/day. Once the deductible is reached the cost will vary depending on your Pharmacare coverage (most will pay $3/day on average)
Adds Monica Kocsmaros, VP External Relations: “We’re pleased with today’s announcement, and it is our hope that in the future other CGM products and the Flash GM will be covered in BC as well. Diabetes is a very individual disease that affects different patients differently. We believe in choice when it comes to treatment options, and for patients in consultation with their health care providers to decide on their best course of treatment. Today was an important step towards Access For All.”
For Canadians living with type 1 diabetes, self-management is accomplished through careful measurement of blood glucose and administration of insulin. CGMs and Flash GMs rely on sensors attached to the body which measure glucose in the interstitial fluid just below the skin, replacing the traditional finger prick method. The glucose reading is sent to the screen of a reader device, a smartphone or an insulin pump, providing users with an up-to-date reading of glucose every few minutes – readings which help the user calculate insulin dosage. These devices can also include alarms that alert the user and/or their caregivers if blood sugar levels are rising or dropping rapidly and require urgent action.
Studies show that use of diabetes technologies such as insulin pumps, CGMs and Flash GMs help improve self-management of diabetes, including important measures such as overall blood glucose (HbA1C) and time in target range (TIR), keeping more people out of hospital.
Improving access to advanced glucose monitoring devices and insulin pumps for all Canadians living with type 1 diabetes is the goal of JDRF’s Access for All campaign. Type 1 diabetes devices help those living with the disease have better self-management, leading to improved health outcomes and better quality of life.
TORONTO, ON — June 3, 2021 – The Sun Life Walk to Cure Diabetes for JDRF is the largest fundraising event in Canada that rallies the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community to unite and raise funds for T1D research.
This year’s Walk is a family-friendly, virtual, and interactive event that will bring together those impacted by T1D. The Walk aims to raise critical funds for research that will get us closer to giving Canadians freedom from T1D. Join us for a uniquely immersive and interactive experience filled with fun challenges, prizes, entertainment, and the celebration of coming together to change the future of T1D. Our community will experience the Walk within a brand new virtual and interactive world. They will be able to discover the Walk route as if they were physically there, browse our different booths, meet with friends along the way and celebrate with us during the main show.
As we commemorate the 100 years since the discovery of insulin, we are challenging participants to each walk 100km to mark this milestone and to raise funds for T1D research that will move us beyond insulin, accelerating toward a cure. Whether it is a route in your room, a track in your backyard or a loop around your neighborhood, it doesn’t matter where you walk, just that you register. And if walking isn’t your thing – we’re encouraging participants to ‘think 100!’ Like 100 bottle returns, 100 sit ups, or 100 donations.
“Research much be accelerated forward and during this period of uncertainty, it is heartening to see that we can rely on the power of community to support one other,” says Dave Prowten, President and CEO of JDRF Canada. “The Sun Life Walk to Cure Diabetes for JDRF is a testament to the passion and resolve of a group of people who are inspired by a common goal: to create a world without T1D.”
Sun Life has been involved with the Walk since 2014 as the National Sponsor and increased its already strong commitment to diabetes in Canada by becoming the National Title Sponsor of the Walk in 2018. Since announcing global support of the cause in 2012, Sun Life has committed more than $38 million globally in support of diabetes awareness, prevention, care and research initiatives.
“One of the fastest growing health challenges of our time, diabetes and prediabetes affects 11.5 million Canadians,” said Milos Vranesevic, Senior Vice-President, Chief Marketing Officer, Sun Life. “As we celebrate the discovery of insulin and the improvements it has had on the treatment of diabetes, there is still no cure. That is why our partnership with JDRF is so important. Sponsoring the Walk is one of the ways we can raise awareness and money to help those with diabetes live healthier lives.”
While we may not be together in person this year, we will still come together to walk the distance for the more more than 300,000 Canadians touched by T1D and their families. It is a movement that empowers people who refuse to be defined by their disease – a way the T1D community can come together and accelerate towards a cure.
Join the 2021 Sun Life Walk to Cure Diabetes for JDRF and help us accelerate our research from the comfort of your own home (link).
About JDRF Canada
JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research. Our goal is to raise
funds to support the most advanced international type 1 diabetes research and progressively
remove the impact of this disease from people’s lives – until we achieve a world without type 1
diabetes. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners and is the only organization with
the scientific resources, regulatory influence, and a working plan to better treat, prevent, and
eventually cure type 1 diabetes. JDRF is the largest charitable funder of and advocate for research to cure, prevent and treat T1D in the world. For more information, please visit breakthrought1d.ca.
Sun Life in the community At Sun Life, we are committed to building sustainable, healthier communities for life. Community wellness is an important part of our sustainability commitment and we believe that by actively supporting the communities in which we live and work, we can help build a positive environment for our Clients, employees, advisors and shareholders. Our philanthropic support focuses on health, with an emphasis on diabetes awareness, prevention, and care initiatives; and mental health, supporting programs and organizations with a focus on building resilience and coping skills.
We also partner with sports properties in key markets to further our commitment to healthy and active living. Our employees and advisors take great pride in volunteering close to 12,000 hours each year and contribute to making life brighter for individuals and families across Canada.
For more information:
Vanessa Parent
Bilingual Marketing & Communications Specialist at JDRF Canada
