November is National Diabetes Month — a time to raise awareness for diabetes, its impact on people’s lives, and how health care heroes are tirelessly developing better treatments, care, and cures. Learn about some of the innovative advancements in diabetes care happening here at UPMC Children’s that are bolstered by our generous donors.
The Diabetes Wraparound Program
The Diabetes Wraparound Program (DWP) aims to improve outcomes for kids struggling with diabetes management. Led by talented physicians and funded by generous donors, DWP empowers patients and families to better manage their condition through a holistic, comprehensive, child-centered approach. The results thus far have been astounding. A majority of participants saw improvement in HbA1c, as well as improved familial relationships, food security, and communication with clinicians.
Diabetes Gene Therapy Research
Dr. George Gittes and his team are using cutting-edge genetic techniques to develop a gene therapy treatment that may offer a corrective solution to T1D and type 2 diabetes (T2D). The treatment involves a minimally invasive procedure to infuse a genetically engineered virus into the pancreas, “switching on” insulin production. The procedure has proven remarkably successful in mice, and the team is refining the procedure in non-human primates to optimize efficacy as they approach human trials.
These programs and initiatives are the tip of the iceberg. Our patients have also been able to benefit from a transition program offering guidance and support on their journeys to adult care. Check out the story of how Haley White’s experience enables her to care for kids and families.
UPMC Children’s is fortunate to have one of the top Pediatric Diabetes & Endocrinology program in the nation according to US News & World Report — a reflection of the expertise and dedication of this division’s incredible leaders, physicians, and staff, past and present.