Finding a cure for diabetes-both Type 1 and Type 2-has been a longtime quest for scientists at the University of Alberta. The incidence of the disease is continuously growing; according to Diabetes Canada, 11 million Canadians are living with diabetes or prediabetes and a new diagnosis of diabetes happens every three minutes.
Both types have been known to be chronic and incurable once a person is diagnosed, but new research reveals that in some cases Type 2 is potentially reversible. This information is also supported by the American Diabetes Association.
"Some people with Type 2 diabetes can reverse it," said Yeung, clinical endocrinologist, Alberta Diabetes Institute member and assistant professor in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry's Department of Medicine.
Yeung focuses on community engagement to address gaps in diabetes care, by involving peer support, community-health workers and educational resources. Her research is also centred on developing interventions for preventing and reducing the burden of gestational diabetes, the fastest rising form of diabetes.
She will take part in the rapid fire presentations at the Festival of Health to share her expertise with the public. "I will talk about how people can prevent and manage diabetes, and where to find information to start reversing it."
While Type 1 diabetes occurs as a result of a malfunction of the immune system, Type 2 is developed when the body is no longer able to use its insulin properly, or doesn't produce enough of it to keep blood sugar at a healthy level. Depending on the severity of the illness, it can be managed through exercise, meal planning and medications.
Find out more about this topic at the FoMD's Festival of Health on May 26.
The Festival of Health
Register here for your free ticket
Edmonton Clinic Health Academy 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
North Campus, University of Alberta
Barbecue and Entertainment
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Rapid Fire Presentations and Ask The Experts: Q & A Session
1 - 2:30 p.m.
Info Sessions and Tours
3 - 5 p.m.
More information available at uab.ca/healthfest.