Nagpur: As the world gears up to mark Diabetes Day on November 14, medical research has taken a significant stride for combating Type 1 diabetes. The US FDA has recently approved teplizumab injection, giving hope to those grappling with this relentless condition. Dr Sunil Gupta, national president of DIPSI (Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group of India), shared this breakthrough with TOI.On this Diabetes Day, this remarkable piece of news has the potential to redefine the lives of those with Type 1 diabetes in India. The US FDAs approval of teplizumab offers a new avenue of hope, particularly for our younger population facing challenges due to this condition. Its not just a medical development; its a positive turn in the narrative of Type 1 diabetes, he said.Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Despite medical advancements, it has long been considered untreatable. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes need insulin lifetime for survival. In a recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, teplizumab has shown promise in preserving beta cell function in children and adolescents newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. India is the Type 1 diabetes capital of the world. So, we can consider teplizumab as the much-needed silver lining in our healthcare landscape. If introduced in India, it could offer relief and a renewed sense of hope for individuals and their families, he said. Type 1 diabetes is predominantly an autoimmune disease. More than 60% of type 1 diabetes patients are children. It has three crucial stages. Stage 1 is the start of type 1 diabetes, marked by individuals having two or more diabetes-related auto-antibodies and normal blood sugar levels. In stage 2, individuals have dysglycaemia (abnormal blood glucose levels) without symptoms. Stage 3 is a clinical diagnosis in hospitals after which the individual becomes dependent on external insulin for survival. Dr Gupta said the drug has been successful up to level 3 trials in stage 1 and stage 2 patients. Individuals with a family history of diabetes are at high risk. So, children can hugely benefit from this therapy. Green light from the FDA to teplizumabs not only marks a significant step in the global battle against Type 1 diabetes but also opens doors for a brighter future for those affected by this silent epidemic, Dr Gupta said.We also published the following articles recentlyDiabetes rising among the youngWorld Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, is highlighting the impact of blood sugar on heart health, as there has been a rise in sudden deaths suspected to be linked to cardiovascular issues. Experts in Ahmedabad have noted a shift in the general patient profile, with diabetes and pre-diabetes occurring at a younger age. The rise in diabetes is increasing the risk of heart disease, and unfortunately, many cases of diabetes are detected during health check-ups rather than through symptoms. A study found that almost 20% of Gujarats population is either diabetic or pre-diabetic.Rising diabetes curve: A warning for IndiaIndia is facing a diabetes epidemic, with over 100 million confirmed or undiagnosed cases. The numbers are expected to double in the next 20 years. Diabetes is a chronic disease and a leading cause of various health complications. Changing diets high in sugar and carbohydrates, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity are contributing factors. The prevalence is higher in urban areas and in certain states, with Goa having the highest overall prevalence. India also has a significant number of children with Type-1 diabetes. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of Type-2 diabetes.Diabetes monitoring camps to be held in ChennaiOn World Diabetes Day, the health team from Rotary District 3232 will organize glucose monitoring camps in Chennai. The camps will be held in various locations including parks, housing societies, schools, IT parks, and factories. Diabetologist Dr M C Deepak will offer free consultation at his center in Anna Nagar until June 2024 for attendees diagnosed with diabetes.

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