News

Alberta government expands insulin coverage

2012-02-03T16:43:01-05:00

EDMONTON, ALBERTA (February 3, 2012) The Canadian Diabetes Association applauds the Government of Alberta for increasing access to long acting insulin known as Lantus (insulin glargine) and Levemir (insulin detemir) for Albertans living with diabetes. This week both drugs were added to the provincial drug formulary, providing more options for diabetes patients when other insulin treatments do not effectively control blood glucose levels. Lantus and Levemir may provide up to 24 hours of blood glucose control and can help reduce the risk of hypoglycemia in some patients.

“This is a positive step in ensuring those with diabetes in Alberta have access to medication that helps them manage their condition,” said Laura Kemp, Regional Director for the Canadian Diabetes Association, Alberta and NWT. “We applaud the Government of Alberta for providing coverage for alternative insulin therapy options.”

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to control the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. In people who have diabetes, the pancreas does not produce any or enough insulin, or is unable to effectively use the insulin it does produce. As a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, potentially leading to serious health problems such as blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, amputation, nerve damage and erectile dysfunction.

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About the Canadian Diabetes Association
Today, more than nine million Canadians live with diabetes or prediabetes. Across the country, the Canadian Diabetes Association is leading the fight against diabetes by helping people with diabetes live healthy lives while we work to find a cure. Our community-based network of supporters help us provide education and services to people living with diabetes, advocate for our cause, break ground towards a cure and translate research into practical applications. For more information, please visit diabetes.ca or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).

For additional information or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Katie Ostler
Canadian Diabetes Association, AB & NWT
katie.ostler@diabetes.ca
Office: 780-423-5722 x 240
Cell: 780-504-498

Alberta Transportation announces new rules for medical reporting for drivers with diabetes

2012-01-16T16:20:01-05:00

Alberta Transportation announced changes today to the rules for medical reporting for drivers with diabetes. Drivers with well managed diabetes will no longer have to provide annual driver medical reports, pending the approval of their physician.

Please click on the link below for more information about the announcement.
http://alberta.ca/acn/201201/31797D7BA636C-F3FE-3BD6-A0BEF3140FD4DD33.html

Canada’s Major Health Charities Urge Federal Government to Engage in Health Accord Negotiations

2012-01-12T15:15:00-05:00

TORONTO, Jan. 12, 2012 - A significant majority of Canadians - 85 per cent - say the federal government should be an equal partner in discussions on the future of healthcare in Canada , according to a poll released today by the Canadian Diabetes Association, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society.

This clear message supports the three charities’ strong belief that the federal government must fully engage with the provinces and territories to develop an effective 2014 health accord, especially for those living with chronic disease.

Collaboration

“The federal government must stay connected to the healthcare process. Engagement with the provinces and territories is crucial to ensure all Canadians have equal access to high-quality healthcare,” says Dan Demers, Director, Public Issues, Canadian Cancer Society. “While much of the health accord debate has been about financial transfer payments, it is improving the health of Canadians, regardless of where they live, that must be at the centre of healthcare reforms. We will be watching with interest to see how the federal government engages in these crucial discussions that will have a direct impact on all Canadians for generations to come.”

With provincial and territorial premiers poised to meet January 16-17 in Victoria, B.C. to discuss the health accord, the Canadian Diabetes Association, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society are sending a clear message about Canadians’ top priorities - chronic disease prevention and equal access to drugs and medical devices.

Every year, more than 150,000 Canadians die from one of four major non-communicable diseases - cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. Together these diseases account for 65 per cent of all deaths in Canada.

Access To Drugs and Devices

“Affordable access to medications and devices is essential in managing chronic disease,” says Michael Cloutier, President and CEO, Canadian Diabetes Association. “A pan-Canadian catastrophic drug program, which would ensure that no Canadian has to choose between paying rent or buying medications or devices, must be included in the 2014 health accord.”

Poll results support this, with an overwhelming majority of Canadians - 93 per cent - saying that the 2014 health accord should include a plan to ensure no Canadian faces significant financial hardship to buy drugs or medical devices.

Chronic Disease Prevention

The poll also reveals that 94 per cent of Canadians say prevention of chronic diseases and their complications should either be a top (43 per cent) or important but lower priority (51 per cent) for the 2014 health accord discussions, even if it means reallocating resources from other areas of healthcare.

It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of coronary heart disease and stroke, and over 50 per cent of diabetes cases, can be prevented through lifestyle, including healthy eating. In addition, about half of all cancers can be prevented through healthy living and policies that protect the health of Canadians.

“The renewed health accord must include increased prevention initiatives so fewer Canadians experience the devastating effects of serious chronic diseases,” says Bobbe Wood, President, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. “The accord must also ensure that high-quality, timely and ongoing assistance is available to people living with such conditions.”

About the poll
The telephone poll was conducted by Environics. Environics interviewed 1,000 Canadians aged 18 yrs+ across Canada during the period December 6 - 11, 2011. The margin of error is +/-3.10% at 95%.

Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society fights cancer by doing everything we can to prevent cancer, save lives and support people living with cancer. Join the fight! Go to fightback.ca to find out how you can help. When you want to know more about cancer, visit cancer.ca or call our toll-free bilingual Cancer Information Service at 1 888 939-3333.

Canadian Diabetes Association
Across the country, the Canadian Diabetes Association is leading the fight against diabetes by helping people with diabetes live healthy lives while we work to find a cure. Our community-based network of supporters help us provide education and services to people living with diabetes, advocate for our cause, break ground towards a cure and translate research into practical applications. Please visit diabetes.ca, join us on facebook.com/CanadianDiabetesAssociation, follow us on Twitter @DiabetesAssoc, or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (heartandstroke.ca), a volunteer-based health charity, leads in eliminating heart disease and stroke and reducing their impact through the advancement of research and its application, the promotion of healthy living, and advocacy.

For further information or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Canadian Cancer Society
Alexa Giorgi
416 934-5338

Canadian Diabetes Association
Randi Garcha
T: (416) 408-7071 | C: (647) 292-9641

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
Eileen Melnick McCarthy
613 569-4361, ext 318

Response to Government of Nova Scotia’s Decision to Not Cover Insulin Pumps

2011-12-15T21:37:00-05:00

December 15, 2011 – It is unfortunate for the thousands of people with diabetes in the province who require insulin pumps and their families that the government has decided not to extend public funding for an insulin pump program. Studies have shown that people living with type 1 diabetes that use insulin pump therapy experience fewer complications and live longer, healthier lives. In fact, a better managed blood glucose regimen has been proven to reduce the number of heart, kidney and liver-related diabetes complications.

The Canadian Diabetes Association and JDRF recognize the value of fiscal responsibility when it comes to prudent health management; however, by investing in insulin pump therapy in the short-term, we can take steps to lessen or prevent diabetes complications from developing later in life also resulting in healthcare savings in the long-term. Findings from the Canadian Diabetes Association’s recent report, The Economic Benefit of Public Finding for Insulin Pumps in Nova Scotia, shows an investment into a publicly funded insulin pump program could improve health outcomes for Nova Scotians with diabetes and save the province up to $1.4 million by 2032. By remaining one of the only three provinces not committed to an insulin pump program, the government is making a decision that will impede its ability to deliver better health outcomes to the many Nova Scotians who currently cannot afford a pump.

We strongly urge the government of Nova Scotia to reconsider a strategic investment into an insulin pump program in the province, so that all Nova Scotians have equal opportunity to live long and healthy lives.

About the Canadian Diabetes Association
Across the country, the Canadian Diabetes Association is leading the fight against diabetes by helping people with diabetes live healthy lives while we work to find a cure. Our community-based network of supporters help us provide education and services to people living with diabetes, advocate for our cause, break ground towards a cure and translate research into practical applications. Please visit diabetes.ca, join us on facebook.com/CanadianDiabetesAssociation, follow us on Twitter @DiabetesAssoc, or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).

About JDRF Canada
JDRF is the leading global organization focused on T1D research. Driven by passionate, grassroots volunteers connected to children, adolescents, and adults with this disease, JDRF is the largest charitable supporter of T1D research. The goal of JDRF is to improve the lives of every person affected by T1D by accelerating progress on the most promising opportunities for curing, better treating, and preventing T1D. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners who share this goal. Since its founding in 1970, JDRF has internationally awarded more than $1.5 billion to T1D research. More than 80 per cent of JDRF’s expenditures directly support research and research-related education. Past JDRF research efforts have helped to significantly improve the care of people with this disease, and have expanded the critical scientific understanding of T1D. JDRF will not rest until T1D is fully conquered. For more information, please visit jdrf.ca

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For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Sherry Calder
Manager, Marketing & Communications (Atlantic)
Canadian Diabetes Association
Office: (902) 453-3529
Cell: (902) 221-1162
sherry.calder@diabetes.ca

Jennifer Dent
National Director, Marketing & Communications
JDRF
Office: (647) 789-2025
Cell: (416) 427 3407
jdent@jdrf.ca

Bridging the gaps: An Atlantic diabetes forum

2011-12-12T22:55:00-05:00

On November 3 and 4, 2011 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, approximately 50 health care professionals and stakeholders from the Atlantic provinces gathered to discuss gaps and best practices in diabetes care and management.

Presentations and resource documents:
A Comprehensive Diabetes Strategy for New Brunswickers
Bridging the Gaps NL
PHAC for CDA
PHAC Halifax 2011
Dr. Colbourne
GAPS Presentation 2
Shelley Jones Diabetes Case Management in Primary Care

Canadian Diabetes Association Announces Proud Supporters

2011-12-12T13:39:03-05:00

Vancouver, BC (Dec. 12, 2011) – The Canadian Diabetes Association, Pacific Area is pleased to announce proud supporters of the Association.

Sirona Biochem Corp.
One Earth
Exceleris
Insurance Direct Canada

“Proud Supporters enable us to continue to provide valuable diabetes education and services in communities across Canada. We sincerely thank Sirona Biochem and Silver Hills Bakery for supporting us in the fight against diabetes,” said Connie Abram, Executive Director for Western Canada and Territories. Silver Hills Bakery has been a proud supporter for the Association for two years.

The presence of a Canadian Diabetes Association Proud Supporter mark indicates that a corporation is an active supporter of the Association’s mission to lead the fight against diabetes by helping people with diabetes live healthy lives while working to find a cure.

For more information about the Canadian Diabetes Association’s Proud Supporter program, please contact: Charlotte Lawson. Learn more about the special offers and promotions provided by our Proud Supporters.

About the Canadian Diabetes Association
Across the country, the Canadian Diabetes Association is leading the fight against diabetes by helping people with diabetes live healthy lives while we work to find a cure. Our community-based network of supporters help us provide education and services to people living with diabetes, advocate for our cause, break ground towards a cure and translate research into practical applications. Please visit diabetes.ca, join us on facebook.com/CanadianDiabetesAssociation, follow us on Twitter @DiabetesAssoc, or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).

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For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Regina Nebrida
Marketing & Communications Associate, Pacific
Canadian Diabetes Association
Tel: (604) 732-1331 ext. 241
regina.nebrida@diabetes.ca

Board Announcement from Don Mann: New Chair and Directors

2011-12-06T15:25:00-05:00

Over the past year, I have very much enjoyed leading the Association’s fight against diabetes in my capacity as Chair of the Board of Directors. With the leadership of President & CEO Michael Cloutier and the Executive Leadership Team, I see a very positive future ahead of us. At this year’s National Annual General Meeting, I completed my one year term as Chair. I very much look forward to continuing to serve on the Board as a Director and in my new role as immediate Past Chair.

On behalf of the Board, I am very pleased to announce that Doug Macnamara has been elected as Chair of the Association’s Board of Directors for 2012-2014.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 48, after originally being misdiagnosed with type 2 for nine months, Doug has seen firsthand how much work there still is to do in support of those affected by diabetes. After serving four years as the Regional Chair for Southern Alberta, and beginning his second year on the Board of Directors, Doug’s goals are to see the Association become foremost in the minds of the community, to engage more volunteers, stakeholders and staff across the country, and to improve health outcomes for people with diabetes.

Based in Banff, Alberta, for the past 18 years, Doug is president of Banff Executive Leadership, which provides consulting in executive leadership and board governance across Canada, Silicon Valley, Europe, Asia and Australia. In his professional life, Doug works with clients in most areas of the Canadian healthcare system, including government ministers, doctors, pharmacists, technologists and professional associations, as well as several global pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies. He has earned Certified Management Consultant and Certified Human Resources Professional designations.

Please join me in welcoming Doug as the new Chair of our Board of Directors.

Looking ahead, I would also like to welcome our newest Board Directors: Jan Cochrane, Suzanne Deuel, Maureen Kotopski and Michael Swartz. They join Maureen Clement, Bill Goodacre, Ram Krishna, Peter Light, Kelvin Tran and Beau Zahrai and myself.

Our Board of Directors is the foundation of our organization and I look forward to working with our newest and continuing members throughout 2012-2013.

Sincerely,

Don Mann
Past Chair, Board of Directors

A Surprise Diabetes Awareness Event Stops Shoppers in their Tracks!

2011-11-30T19:42:00-05:00

LAVAL, QC, Nov. 30, 2011 — Even though more than 9 million Canadians live with diabetes or prediabetes, an awareness event staged during Diabetes Awareness Month showed just how far a little awareness, motivation and encouragement can go in the fight against diabetes.

Watch the video!

Participants were unexpectedly cheered on by the antics of The Second City Communications improv troupe as they walked around a tiny race track (designed to resemble the International Diabetes Federation blue circle symbol for diabetes).

The public event, staged by Sanofi Canada and the Canadian Diabetes Association, helped highlight how even taking a small step in the right direction, can help to manage or prevent type 2 diabetes.

“At Sanofi Canada, we’re honouring Diabetes Awareness Month by encouraging Canadians to learn more about preventing and managing diabetes,” says Hugh O’Neill, President and CEO, Sanofi Canada. “The good news is that we can make a difference in preventing diabetes. When it comes to diabetes, knowledge and empowerment leads to hope in the form of preventative healthy lifestyle choices. For example, regular physical activity, in conjunction with healthy eating and weight control, can help reduce type 2 diabetes incidence by over 50%.”

“Today, nearly a million Canadians are living with diabetes and don’t know it, because they have not been diagnosed,” says Michael Cloutier, President and CEO, Canadian Diabetes Association. “Efforts to increase public awareness of diabetes, such as today’s event, are critically important in our collective fight against this disease.”

For more information about diabetes visit: http://www.diabetes.ca and http://www.diabetesbluecircle.org

About Sanofi
Sanofi, a global and diversified healthcare leader, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions focused on patients’ needs. Sanofi is represented in Canada by the pharmaceutical company sanofi-aventis Canada Inc., based in Laval, Quebec, and by the vaccines company Sanofi Pasteur Limited, based in Toronto, Ontario. Together they employ more than 2,000 people across the country. With combined R&D investments of $159.2 million in 2010, they are leaders in Canada’s biopharmaceutical sector, a critical knowledge-based industry that generates jobs, business and opportunity throughout the country.

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For more information about the event or to coordinate onsite interviews contact:
David Weinstein, Rebecca Crittenden or Debra Quinn at Strategic Objectives:
TEL: (416) 366-7735
TOLL-FREE: 1-866-366-7733
E: rcrittenden@strategicobjectives.com

Shrink-a-thon brings result for fitness and fundraising

2011-11-28T22:55:00-05:00

On November 28th, following a special 10-week program, 13 participants from Brandon and Winnipeg who shed pounds and raised dollars for the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) in a third-party event called the Shrink-a-thon, celebrated their success.

Organizer Sheila Dancho said she was pleased to see the results for her participants and the CDA.
Each participant improved their lifestyle, lost weight, and donated a total of $1,379 in pledges to the Association.

The next Shrink-a-thon event will kick off on Monday, January 9, 2012.
Those wishing to participate or receive more information can call:
Toll free 1-866-595-5002 or email: WorldChangerCoach@gmail.com

PHOTOS: The participants from the Fall 2011 Shrink-a-thon in support of the Canadian Diabetes Association

Canadian Diabetes Association Applauds Pediatric Insulin Pump Program

2011-11-18T20:22:00-05:00

Good news for New Brunswick youth and families living with diabetes

FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK (November 18, 2011) – The Canadian Diabetes Association congratulates the province of New Brunswick for its leadership in introducing a Pediatric Insulin Pump Program. Today, the Association issued a new report that shows a provincial government investment into a publicly funded insulin pump program could improve health outcomes for New Brunswickers with diabetes and save the province up to $1.3 million by 2032.

“It is very encouraging to see the New Brunswick government respond to the needs of people living with diabetes by providing access to insulin pumps for those 18 years or under,” said Michael Cloutier, President and CEO, Canadian Diabetes Association. “Switching from daily insulin injections to an insulin pump can reduce complications and increase the quality of life for thousands of New Brunswickers living with type 1 diabetes.”

Fredericton resident Beckie McGinn personally understands how an insulin pump can benefit an individual living with diabetes. “An insulin pump truly has made a difference in the management of my son’s type 1 diabetes,” says McGinn. “Reece is an active 13 year old boy who feels more confident and in control of his diabetes. We, as parents, also have greater peace of mind knowing we can quickly help him to make any insulin adjustments. This device has made a positive impact on our family.”

“Today’s announcement shows that working together, we can make a difference,” added Cloutier. “This is very good news for New Brunswick youth who live with diabetes, and their families, and we look forward to collaborating with the government in the successful implementation of the Pediatric Insulin Pump program.”

The need for these types of programs are particularly significant in the province, as New Brunswickers living with diabetes face some of the highest levels of personal expenses that can prevent them from being able to effectively manage their disease. According to another new report commissioned by the Association, The Burden of Out-of-Pocket Costs for Canadians with Diabetes, the average out-of-pocket expenses (for diabetes medications, devices and supplies) for a New Brunswicker living with type 2 diabetes is more than $3,400 per year - the highest in the country. For people with type 1 diabetes, cost can rise to nearly $7,000 per year depending on whether they use an insulin pump.

Based on findings from the Canadian Diabetes Association’s New Brunswick Diabetes Cost Model, diabetes in New Brunswick is expected to rise from 70,000 people in 2012 to 128,000 people by 2032. Of this total, the estimated number of people living with type 1 diabetes is 2,100 people in 2012, and is projected to rise to 2,800 by 2032. The current prevalence rates are well above the national average.

The Economic Benefit of Public Funding of Insulin Pumps in New Brunswick

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For additional information or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Sherry Calder
Manager, Marketing & Communications (Atlantic)
Canadian Diabetes Association
sherry.calder@diabetes.ca
Office: (902) 453-3529
Cell: (902) 221-1162