As 2024 comes to and end, lets look back at all of the Diabetes news and updates from this year.
Whether you’re living with T1D or just keeping an eye on the latest in diabetes care, there have been some pretty exciting developments this year. So let's look back on all the good news, tech advances, and healthcare updates that have launched for type 1 diabetes in the UK in 2024!
1. Improved Access to Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
If you're living with type 1 diabetes in the UK, you’re probably already aware of how life-changing continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can be. These little devices track your blood sugar levels in real-time, which means fewer finger pricks and less guesswork when managing your condition.
In 2024, the NHS has expanded access to CGMs for even more people with T1D. Under the NHS England guidelines, those with diabetes who meet specific criteria are now able to access CGMs with minimal waiting times. This includes patients who experience frequent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), as well as those who struggle to maintain stable blood glucose levels. This is a huge step forward, especially for young people and those at high risk of complications.
With CGMs becoming more widely available, it’s easier than ever for people with T1D to stay on top of their health—and make better decisions about their insulin and lifestyle choices.
2. New Insulin Pumps and Technology
On the tech front, things are getting even smarter! In 2024, several smart insulin pumps have been launched or updated in the UK, offering even more features that make life easier for T1D patients.
One of the coolest developments has been the rollout of closed-loop insulin pumps that use real-time data from CGMs to automatically adjust insulin delivery. This means the pump can make adjustments based on blood sugar readings without you having to manually change your doses. While these devices are still being refined, they’re already making a huge impact on people’s lives, offering greater flexibility and fewer worrying highs or lows.
There’s also been a push for making insulin pumps more affordable and accessible across the UK, with some regions now offering more flexible options for people who need them. So, if you’re in the UK and you’re using a pump (or thinking about it), 2024 is shaping up to be a great year for innovation.
3. NHS Diabetes Prevention Program Expands
The NHS Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) is one of the most exciting public health initiatives in the UK, and in 2024, it’s getting an upgrade. Although this program mainly targets type 2 diabetes, there’s been increasing attention on the potential to catch early-stage type 1 diabetes before it progresses.
In 2024, the NDPP has been working on expanding its reach to include more people at high risk of developing T1D, especially those with a family history or those who show early signs of an autoimmune response. This means that more people are getting the support they need to manage their blood sugar levels and prevent complications early on.
The program offers tailored advice on nutrition, exercise, and stress management, which can have a significant impact on long-term health. Even for those who already have T1D, these lifestyle changes are essential for better overall control.
4. Mental Health Support Gains Ground in Diabetes Care
Living with type 1 diabetes isn’t just about managing blood sugar levels—it’s also about looking after your mental health. In 2024, there’s been a strong push for better mental health care integrated into T1D treatment plans across the UK. Diabetes burnout, stress, and depression are real issues for many people with type 1, and the NHS is finally recognising this.
Hospitals and clinics across the UK are offering more psychological support for those with T1D, including access to mental health professionals who specialise in chronic conditions. The goal is to make sure that patients aren’t just receiving insulin or medication, but are also getting the emotional and mental support they need to live their best lives with diabetes.
There’s also been more focus on how sleep and stress impact blood sugar control. With more research on the link between mental health and diabetes, this could be a turning point in how we approach care for people living with T1D.
5. Breakthroughs in Type 1 Diabetes Research
On the research front, 2024 has been a very exciting year. Scientists in the UK are making real strides toward understanding how we can treat—or even cure—type 1 diabetes.
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Gene Therapy Research: There’s been a lot of attention on gene therapy as a potential way to stop the autoimmune attack on insulin-producing cells. While we’re not at the point of a cure yet, some early-stage trials in the UK have been showing promise. It’s still early days, but researchers are hopeful that gene therapies could play a key role in treating or even preventing the progression of type 1 diabetes.
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Islet Cell Transplants: UK researchers are also making strides in pancreatic islet cell transplants, a procedure that could help some T1D patients regain the ability to produce insulin. This is still in the research phase, but there are some exciting breakthroughs happening in how to make these transplants more successful and long-lasting.
6. Diabetes Community Support and Awareness
2024 has been a big year for raising awareness about type 1 diabetes in the UK. Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Week and World Diabetes Day events have seen more people coming together to raise awareness, fundraise, and share their personal stories. Whether it’s through charity walks, social media campaigns, or community events, the T1D community is stronger than ever.
There’s also been a lot of support for insulin affordability. With the high cost of living in the UK, advocacy groups are pushing for policies to make insulin more affordable and accessible to everyone who needs it. The government has been under pressure to make insulin and other diabetes medications more affordable, and in 2024, there’s been some progress in the right direction, though we still have a long way to go.
7. Diabetes and Exercise: More Inclusive Fitness Programs
One last thing that’s worth mentioning is the increasing number of fitness programs specifically designed for people with type 1 diabetes in the UK. Whether it’s running clubs, yoga, or strength training, there’s been a focus on creating inclusive fitness spaces where people with T1D can safely exercise while managing their blood sugar levels. This is such an important part of maintaining good overall health and managing blood sugar levels, and it’s fantastic to see more gyms and organisations providing tailored support.
Wrapping It Up
2024 has been a year of exciting progress for type 1 diabetes in the UK. From improved access to CGMs and insulin pumps to better mental health support and groundbreaking research, there’s a lot to be hopeful about. While we’re not quite at a cure yet, the advancements we’re seeing are making it easier than ever for people with T1D to live their best lives.
Here’s to a year of even more innovation, support, and community for everyone living with type 1 diabetes.