From Awareness to Action: Peer Support Strategies to Advance Type 1 Diabetes Screening

DiabetesSisters is set to unveil significant advancements in the realm of peer support and Type 1 diabetes (T1D) screening engagement at the prestigious Advanced Technologies & Treatments for Diabetes (ATTD) 2026 Conference. The conference, a pivotal global gathering for professionals dedicated to diabetes innovation, will take place from March 11-14, 2026, with a hybrid format encompassing both in-person sessions in Barcelona, Spain, and online participation. This strategic presentation underscores DiabetesSisters’ commitment to translating awareness into tangible action, particularly concerning the critical early detection of T1D.

The Nexus of Expertise and Lived Experience: Poster Presentation at ATTD 2026

At the heart of DiabetesSisters’ contribution to ATTD 2026 is Poster #286, provocatively titled "From Awareness to Action: Peer Support Strategies to Advance Type 1 Diabetes Screening." This impactful presentation will be delivered by two key figures within the organization: Donna Rice, Chief Clinical Officer, and Michele Polz, CEO of DiabetesSisters. Their collective expertise, bridging clinical understanding and leadership in peer support, is expected to offer a novel perspective on a persistent challenge in diabetes management.

The research presented delves into the transformative power of peer-powered, evidence-informed support systems. It argues that while general awareness of T1D risk is a crucial first step, it is insufficient on its own to propel individuals towards proactive screening and timely diagnosis. The poster will articulate how combining the insights of healthcare professionals with the invaluable, real-world experiences of individuals who have navigated the T1D screening process can create a potent catalyst for change. This integrated approach, the research suggests, empowers individuals with the knowledge and confidence necessary to understand their screening options and to make informed decisions about their health. This vital research initiative was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Sanofi, a global healthcare leader committed to advancing diabetes care.

Bridging the Gap: The Role of Community Workshops

The foundation of DiabetesSisters’ ATTD 2026 presentation lies in the methodology employed in their recent community workshops. These sessions were meticulously designed to foster an environment where clinical expertise and lived screening experience could converge. Healthcare experts shared their knowledge of T1D, its risk factors, and the nuances of screening protocols. Simultaneously, individuals who have firsthand experience with T1D screening, whether as diagnosed individuals, family members, or caregivers, shared their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs. This dynamic exchange allowed participants to grasp complex medical information within a relatable human context, demystifying the screening process and encouraging open dialogue.

Donna Rice, in a statement anticipating the conference, emphasized the critical takeaway from these workshops: "We are learning that awareness alone is not enough," she stated. "When clinical expertise is combined with lived screening experience, individuals gain both the information and confidence needed to consider screening." This sentiment highlights a fundamental shift in understanding – from a purely didactic approach to one that is deeply empathetic and empowering, recognizing the psychological barriers that can hinder proactive health behaviors.

The inclusivity of these workshops was a deliberate and crucial aspect of their design. They were intentionally open to a broad audience, welcoming not only individuals living with diabetes and their families but also caregivers and members of the general public who harbored an interest in T1D screening and risk assessment. This wide reach ensured that the message of proactive screening could permeate diverse communities, fostering a collective understanding and encouraging a more widespread adoption of early detection practices.

DiabetesSisters: A Legacy of Peer Support and Empowerment

DiabetesSisters has established itself as a leading organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls living with diabetes through structured peer support and comprehensive education. Their national programs and strategic partnerships with healthcare organizations, research institutions, and community stakeholders are testament to their commitment to enhancing engagement, bolstering confidence, and ultimately, improving health outcomes. The organization’s core philosophy revolves around the belief that shared experiences and mutual support can unlock individuals’ potential to manage their condition effectively and live fulfilling lives.

The effectiveness of DiabetesSisters’ approach is further substantiated by compelling evidence from their programming in 2024. These statistics paint a clear picture of the impact of their peer-supported engagement models:

• Behavioral Change Conviction: An impressive 90% of participants reported feeling convinced to make positive behavioral changes related to their diabetes management. This indicates a profound shift in mindset, moving from passive acceptance to active commitment.
• Confidence in Action: Complementing this conviction, a remarkable 88% of participants reported feeling confident in their ability to implement these desired changes. This statistic is crucial, as it signifies that the support provided not only inspires intent but also equips individuals with the self-efficacy needed for sustained action.

These figures underscore the tangible impact of empowering individuals with knowledge and fostering a supportive community where they can share challenges and celebrate successes. This creates a virtuous cycle of learning, growth, and improved health.

Looking Ahead: Reimagining Diabetes Support at Scale

Beyond their ATTD 2026 presentation, DiabetesSisters continues to champion innovative approaches to diabetes care. The organization is hosting an upcoming webinar, "Reimagining Diabetes Support at Scale," featuring the insightful perspectives of Robert Gabbay, MD, PhD. This webinar will delve deeper into the burgeoning evidence supporting peer-powered support models and their critical role in enhancing patient engagement and driving better health outcomes across broader populations. The focus on "at scale" suggests a vision for disseminating these effective strategies beyond localized interventions, reaching a greater number of individuals who can benefit from structured peer support.

The ATTD 2026 Conference itself is a critical platform for disseminating cutting-edge research and fostering collaboration within the global diabetes community. Established in 2008, the conference has grown into a premier event that brings together researchers, clinicians, industry leaders, and patient advocates to discuss the latest advancements in diabetes technology, treatment, and management. Its hybrid format ensures accessibility, allowing a wider audience to engage with the critical discussions and presentations that shape the future of diabetes care. The decision by DiabetesSisters to present their findings at ATTD signifies the importance and scientific rigor of their work in the eyes of the international diabetes research community.

Implications and Broader Impact

The insights to be shared by DiabetesSisters at ATTD 2026 carry significant implications for public health strategies concerning T1D. The organization’s focus on bridging the gap between awareness and action is particularly relevant in the context of T1D screening, where early detection can dramatically alter the course of the disease. T1D is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This leads to a deficiency in insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to serious health complications if left unmanaged.

Early identification of T1D, especially in its pre-symptomatic stages, allows for timely intervention, potentially slowing the progression of the autoimmune attack and enabling individuals to prepare for life with the condition. This proactive approach can mitigate the immediate health crises often associated with a late diagnosis, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening complication. Furthermore, early diagnosis allows individuals and their families to receive education and support, build necessary skills for self-management, and establish a strong foundation for long-term health and well-being.

The success of peer support models, as demonstrated by DiabetesSisters’ data, highlights a powerful, cost-effective, and patient-centered approach to health education and behavior change. In an era of increasing healthcare demands and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, leveraging community-based support systems is becoming increasingly vital. These models empower individuals by providing them with relatable role models, practical advice, and a sense of belonging, which are often more impactful than traditional, one-size-fits-all educational interventions.

The sponsorship by Sanofi further underscores the pharmaceutical industry’s recognition of the value of patient-centric approaches and community-based support in improving diabetes outcomes. Such collaborations are crucial for scaling effective interventions and ensuring they reach those who need them most.

Call to Action and Engagement

DiabetesSisters extends an open invitation to all ATTD 2026 attendees, as well as individuals with a vested interest in Type 1 diabetes screening, to connect with their team during the conference. This provides an opportunity for direct engagement, further discussion, and networking with experts in the field.

For those unable to attend ATTD 2026 but interested in the future of diabetes support, registration for the upcoming webinar, "Reimagining Diabetes Support at Scale," is now open. Interested parties can register via the provided link: http://hubs.ly/Q046bNKB0.

To learn more about the impactful work of DiabetesSisters and their commitment to empowering individuals with diabetes, please visit their official website at www.diabetessisters.org. Their dedication to fostering a supportive community and driving positive health outcomes continues to make a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals. The presentation at ATTD 2026 is a significant milestone, promising to illuminate new pathways for advancing T1D screening engagement through the powerful synergy of expert knowledge and lived experience.