IDF Europe newsletter – May 2026 – Ελληνική Διαβητολογική Εταιρεία

Accelerating diabetes innovation in Europe:

getting it right for people living with diabetes

Diabetes is a complex, lifelong condition requiring 24/7 self-management across every aspect of daily life. To manage their condition, people living with diabetes (PwD) need access to a range of products and services, including insulin and other medicines, self-management technologies and supplies, structured education, mental health support, regular screening for complications and integrated, person-centred care. Over the past years, innovations such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and advanced insulin delivery systems, digital health tools, new therapies and screening approaches have significantly improved the lives of PwD. However, many unmet needs remain across the full spectrum of diabetes care from primary prevention and early
detection to more effective management and treatment options, better secondary prevention and management of complications and, critically, a cure remains unavailable.

Promising new approaches have emerged that could transform diabetes prevention and care in the coming decades and help address these unmet needs. These include, for example, cell and gene-based replacement therapies, next-generation insulins and novel AI-driven technologies, all of which hold real potential to significantly improve quality of life for PwD.

Europe is uniquely positioned to lead this new wave of
innovation. Across the region, world-class expertise and leading research and clinical centres are already driving advances in diabetes prevention, management and care. Yet, complex, fragmented regulatory and funding landscapes, uneven implementation across countries and delays in translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world solutions are slowing down progress and limiting the uptake of these new innovations. The challenge is not a lack of knowledge or capacity, but ensuring that the right structures are in place to turn this excellence into impact.

This is where the EU Biotech Act, currently under development at EU level, becomes a pivotal opportunity. The legislation will help define the future
framework for biotechnology innovation in Europe, including the development of therapies and technologies that millions of PwD will rely on in the years ahead. By streamlining regulatory pathways, reducing fragmentation and enabling more efficient clinical development and manufacturing, it has the potential to significantly accelerate the translation of scientific breakthroughs into clinical practice.

If designed with people at the centre and a focus on accessibility, affordability and equity, it can strengthen Europe’s position in biomedical innovation and ensure that people benefit from new therapies more quickly and more equitably.

This means ensuring that people with lived experience are meaningfully involved in shaping the direction of innovation, that new therapies translate into real improvements in daily life and that their access is made equal within and between countries. It also requires a clearer focus on where innovation is most needed, ensuring that research and investment are directed towards addressing real unmet needs.

Europe has the capacity to lead the next era of diabetes care, but real success will depend on getting it right: ensuring that innovation reaches the people it is meant to serve and that people with lived experience are engaged from the start.

Martina Boccardo
IDF Strategic Communications and Content Coordinator

Carmen Hurtado del Pozo
BreakthroughT1D Director, European Research

IDF EUROPE, NEWS, ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

Diabetes Ireland Conference & Exhibition 2026

IDF Europe was pleased to participate in the Diabetes Ireland Conference & Exhibition 2026 (DICE2026), represented by Sabine Dupont, Director of Strategy and Policy. The event brought together HCPs, policymakers and diabetes stakeholders to discuss the future of diabetes care in Ireland.

A key highlight of the conference was the launch of the National Diabetes Policy and Services Review by Minister for Health Dr Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, setting out priorities for diabetes care in the years ahead.

Discussions focused on adult, paediatric and gestational diabetes, innovation in care, and the integration of services to improve outcomes for PwD.

WHO/Europe’s Public Health Innovation Platform

IDF Europe is pleased to be part of the WHO/Europe Public Health Innovation Platform, a collaborative initiative bringing together representatives from patient organisations, civil society, academia, industry and public health authorities from across the Region to advance public health innovation.

As healthcare systems face increasingly complex challenges, innovation plays a key role in strengthening prevention, improving care pathways and promoting more resilient and equitable health systems.

Through this platform, IDF Europe will share insights from the diabetes community, exchange knowledge with partners and contribute to the development of innovative approaches that can improve the lives of PwD and other chronic conditions across Europe.

IDF Europe at the “Economics of Obesity and Metabolic Health Summit”

IDF Europe’s Regional Manager, Elisabeth Dupont, will speak at the “Economics of Obesity and Metabolic Health Summit” on June 10 at 17:00 in Brussels, taking part in the panel “How can multi-system interventions transform metabolic health?”. The session will explore how socio-economic status, food systems and the built environment contribute to obesity and metabolic risk, and how fiscal, regulatory and educational measures can help create healthier environments and improve prevention and care outcomes.

The summit will bring together policymakers, researchers and other stakeholders to discuss the economic and social impact of obesity and metabolic health, and to identify effective cross-sector solutions.

Building community consensus for multiple

interconected chronic conditions

On May 19, a multi-stakeholder, lived-experience-led meeting was hosted by Global Heart Hub and The George Institute for Global Health in Zurich.

The event focused on improving integrated care for people living with multiple long-term health conditions.

The discussions brought together organisations from across the non-communicable disease (NCD) community to explore more coordinated, person-centred approaches to care for conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney and liver diseases.

Representatives from IDF Global and IDF Europe, Sameer Pathan and Elisabeth Dupont, shared insights from European integrated care initiatives and highlighted the importance of stronger primary care, HCP education, the
use of digital health tools and multidisciplinary collaboration in advancing integrated cardiometabolic care. Advocates with lived experience also contributed their perspectives, reinforcing the importance of involving people living with chronic conditions in healthcare discussions and decision-making.

Honouring the legacy of Anne Marie Felton: a tireless advocate for diabetes care in Europe

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Anne Marie Felton, who dedicated more than three decades to advancing diabetes education and improving care for PwD across Europe and beyond. A diabetes specialist nurse and founding member of the Foundation of European Nurses in Diabetes (FEND), she played a pivotal role in strengthening the voice of diabetes nurses and shaping diabetes policy and education at both European and global level.

Her longstanding contribution to the wider diabetes community leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.

MEMBER NEWS

FFD releases landmark report on the rights of people living with T1D in France

The Fédération Française des Diabétique (FFD) has published a landmark report on the rights of people living with T1D in France, examining the legal and social protections currently in place and where gaps still remain.

The report highlights how PwD face barriers in areas such as employment, driving, insurance and access to certain opportunities, often due to outdated automatic exclusions rather than individual medical assessment.

It calls for the recognition of equal rights and a more personalised approach to decision making, ensuring PwD receive fair treatment in everyday life. okoko

JUJUJU

APDP marks 100 years of pioneering diabetes care and advocacy

The Portuguese Diabetes Association (APDP) marked its 100th anniversary with a commemorative ceremony held in Lisbon at the Portuguese Parliament, bringing together policymakers, HCPs, international partners and diabetes advocates to celebrate a century of pioneering work in diabetes care and advocacy.

The event highlighted APDP’s historical contribution to improving access to insulin, advancing person-centred care, and promoting education and social inclusion for PwD.

Speakers reflected on the organisation’s evolution from its founding in 1926 to its current role as a leading centre for integrated diabetes care and innovation.

Submit a nomination for the 2026-28 cohort of the Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) Programme

The Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) Programme was established by the International Diabetes Federation to empower young PwD to champion their cause and represent others globally living with the condition.

We are pleased to announce that IDF has opened applications for the new YLD Cohort 2026.

We invite you to nominate up to two candidates in this link:

https://mailchi.mp/idf/yld-nomination-2026-en

Join us for an information webinar to find out more about the programme and for participants to be guided through the nomination and application process on May 29 from 14:00 to 16:30 CEST.

IDF Europe at the San Marino Diabetes Congress

On May 29–30, the San Marino Association of People with Diabetes, Vivere Meglio (“Living Better”), organised an international congress focused on advancing person-centred diabetes care. The programme was co-developed by IDF Europe in collaboration with the Congress President, Riccardo Venturini, and the Scientific Lead, Paolo Di Bartolo.

The event brought together diabetes advocates, HCPs, national associations and other experts to exchange perspectives on the future of diabetes care. Discussions focused on high-quality, integrated and person-centred care, the role of key stakeholders, the social impact of diabetes, and the importance of innovation, equity and personalised approaches to care. IDF Europe’s representatives, Prof. Tadej Battelino, Stella de Sabata and Martina Boccardo, joined the event, and presented IDFE’s work on advancing PwD’s rights and amplifying the voice of diabetes community in policy, research and advocacy.

We thank Vivere Meglio for their collaboration and are pleased to welcome them as a new IDF provisional member. We look forward to building on this successful cooperation and deepening our engagement in the future.

YOUTH PLATFORM

Mentors’ weekend

The Mentors’ Weekend for the IDF Europe Youth Leadership Lab (YLL) 2026 took place in Brussels from May 1–3, bringing together mentors ahead of this year’s YLL to be held in Portugal. The weekend combined team-building activities, practical workshops and planning sessions designed to prepare mentors for their role in supporting young diabetes advocates throughout the YLL journey.

A key focus was strengthening collaboration, aligning on programme objectives, and
equipping mentors with the tools needed to facilitate peer learning, leadership development and inclusive group work. The sessions also reinforced the importance of shared experience and guidance in empowering the next generation of advocates within the diabetes community.

The IDF Europe T2D training has officially started

On May 26, IDF Europe officially launched the T2GETHER Training Programme, a new pilot initiative designed to empower people living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) to become confident and effective advocates.

Co-created with members of the T2GETHER community, the programme combines expert-led training, peer exchange and practical advocacy skills development.

Through six modules
running from May to October 2026, participants will explore topics such as understanding what is T2D and how its complications develop, advocacy basics including storytelling, project development and the use of data, while also learning how to use their lived experience to drive positive change. ggog

MMD NEWS

The MMD Group welcomes MEP Daniel Attard (S&D, Malta)

The MMD Group is pleased to welcome Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Daniel Attard (S&D, Malta) as a new member. MEP Attard serves as Vice-Chair of the Delegation for relations with Iran and is an active member of several key parliamentary committees, including TRAN, ITRE and REGI, as well as multiple delegations focused on international relations.

With a background in diplomacy, local government and journalism, he brings extensive experience to his work in the European Parliament. A strong advocate for youth empowerment, MEP
Attard is committed to ensuring that young people, particularly those living with T1D, are meaningfully involved in decision-making processes.

We look forward to his contribution to advancing inclusive and patient-centred policies across Europe.

WHAT WE ARE READING

Diabetes-related complications: an evolving spectrum – The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology

Diabetes complications are increasingly understood as a complex and evolving spectrum, reflecting the growing impact of multimorbidity and long-term metabolic risk. The article highlights the need for more integrated, preventive and patient-centred approaches to care, as well as health systems that can better respond to the changing reality of diabetes management. Read more

Ireland strengthens equitable access to assistive technology – WHO assessment

Ireland is making progress in improving equitable access to assistive technology, according to a new WHO assessment. The findings highlight steps taken to strengthen policy and service delivery, while also pointing to remaining challenges around affordability and availability. Ensuring access to assistive technology remains key to advancing inclusion and universal health coverage. Read more

CGM vs self-monitoring in T2D – The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology

New evidence from a randomised clinical trial adds to existing research showing that CGM improves glycaemic management compared to traditional self-monitoring in people with T2D. These findings further support the role of digital tools in enabling more personalised and effective diabetes care. Read more. Read more

UNDERSTANDING DIABETES

World No Tobacco Day

On May 31, World No Tobacco Day served as a reminder of the strong link between tobacco use and T2D. Smoking has been shown not only to increase the risk of developing T2D, but also to worsen diabetes-related complications, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage and vision impairment.

As part of the European Chronic Disease Alliance (ECDA), we continued to advocate for stronger policies addressing shared risk factors and promoting healthier environments for all. Reducing tobacco use remains essential to improving public health
outcomes and supporting prevention efforts across Europe.

Evidence also showed that quitting smoking leads to significant health benefits, including improved diabetes management and a reduced risk of long-term complications. People who smoke should have access to effective cessation support and integrated healthcare services to help them successfully quit smoking. JKJKJKJKJKJK

European Public Health Week

During the European Public Health Week (May 4–8), we highlighted several key themes reflecting the broader challenges and priorities linked to diabetes and NCD across Europe.

The discussions focused on the importance of equity-driven public health investment, recognising how social determinants such as income, education and access to care strongly influence diabetes outcomes and overall health.

Mental
health was also highlighted as a key component of diabetes care, underlining the need for more integrated support that addresses both physical and psychological well-being.

In addition, IDF Europe stressed the importance of meaningful engagement of PwD in research, policy and decision-making processes to strengthen trust, accountability and more person-centred healthcare systems.

International Nurses Day

On International Nurses Day (May 12) we recognised the essential role nurses play in diabetes care. For PwD, diabetes specialist nurses (DSNs) are often at the heart of care, providing education, guidance, treatment support and continuity throughout every stage of the diabetes journey.

As diabetes prevalence continues to rise across Europe, strong multidisciplinary healthcare teams are essential to deliver integrated, person-centred care.

DNSs play a critical role within these teams, supporting PwD through education, from medication and self-management to lifestyle changes and prevention and management of complications, and providing essential psychological support.

At IDF Europe, we call for greater recognition, support and investment in the diabetes healthcare workforce, including DNSs, to strengthen healthcare systems and improve diabetes care across Europe.
JIJIJIJIJIJJI

World Hypertension Day

On World Hypertension Day (May 17), we raised awareness of hypertension (HTN), a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease that is frequently observed alongside diabetes and contributes to increased health risks. It is also one of the leading causes of premature death worldwide.

It can develop silently over time without noticeable symptoms, making prevention, early detection and effective management essential.

Healthy lifestyles, regular monitoring and access to quality healthcare can significantly reduce its impact.

PwD are around twice as likely to develop high blood pressure, increasing the risk of serious diabetes-related complications such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.
DigiCare4You – A Horizon 2020 Project is an example of an initiative aiming to improve the early prevention and management of HTN and T2D through community-based, person-centred digital solutions.

EU RESEARCH PROJECTS

ASSESS DHT

Join the ASSESS DHT Open Consultation and shape our digital health technologies (DHTs) assessment framework!

DHTs, including apps, telehealth solutions and AI-based tools, are becoming a central part of Europe’s health systems.

However, approaches to assessing their value, safety and impact vary across countries and are not always adapted to fast-evolving technologies.

The ASSESS DHT project is developing a European framework, toolkit and manual to support the assessment of DHTs across their full lifecycle. Stakeholders are now invited to participate in an open public consultation to help shape this framework and ensure it is relevant, feasible and adaptable across different contexts.

Join the open consultation and help us shape the future of DHT assessment in
Europe. The open consultation will be available until June 20.

Watch the ISLET webinar: “What we did, what we learned and what comes next”

On May 18, we held a webinar showcasing the ISLET project, a Horizon 2020 project aiming to advance on cell-based therapies for TD1.

The webinar explored the progress made so far in T1D research, the current challenges facing islet transplantation and stem cell therapies, including funding, accesibility and inmmunosuppression, as well as the importance of keeping the perspectives of PwD at the centre of innovation.

The webinar sparked usefull conversations highlighting that advancing diabetes care requires not only scientific innovation, but also collaboration, empathy and the meaningful involvement of lived experience. okokoko

Watch the webinar

DigiCare4You updates

IDF Europe is proud to be part of the DigiCare4You Horizon 2020 project, which aims to improve early prevention and management of T2D and HTN.

DigiCare4You final event’s video

Discover the key moments from the second DigiCare4You workshop in a new video, showcasing the final event held on April 29 in Brussels. Bringing together policymakers, public health leaders, healthcare experts and PwD, the event explored innovative solutions for the prevention and management of T2D and HTN, as well as opportunities for future implementation at national level.

Watch the video

Webinar: “From pilot to policy: scaling
DigiCare4You for better NCD Care”

The DigiCare4You interactive webinar, held on May 19, brought together experts and stakeholders to explore how the project is moving beyond pilot initiatives toward real policy-level impact in the prevention and management of NCD such as T2D and HTN.

The session showcased key findings and results from the project, alongside practical insights into how digital health interventions can be implemented and scaled within national health systems. Through expert presentations and dynamic discussions, participants exchanged views on both the challenges and
opportunities of integrating digital solutions into NCD prevention and management strategies.

DiaPs: a new digital peer support tool for sport and diabetes

We are excited to support the launch of DiaPS, a new digital peer-support app designed to empower people living with T1D to participate in sport safely and confidently. Developed as part of the EU-funded DiaPS project, the app was co-created with people living with T1D and brings together athletes, coaches, HCPs, families and researchers in one dedicated space.

The app offers trusted information on sport and diabetes, peer-to-peer support, opportunities to share lived experiences, and personalised connections within a free and accessible platform for the wider community.

As DiaPS officially launches, we are also looking for motivated community members to become verified users and active contributors within the platform.

Interested in becoming a verified user?
Contact the DIaPS team at info@sportsanddiabetes.eu

Download the app

READINGS ON DIABETES

Readings on Diabetes, presented to IDF Europe by Angelo Argenteri, MD, Maria Stella de Sabata, MA, and Andrea Ascoli Marchetti, MD, is a journey through the major diabetes milestones, one of the oldest and still most widespread diseases, with anecdotes, stories, historical facts and a very rich iconography.

Each month, the IDF Europe Newsletter presents a chapter from Readings on Diabetes, which can be downloaded in full here.

15. Charles Dotter: Diabetes Vasculopaty

This chapter tells the story of Charles Dotter, a visionary American radiologist whose ideas would quietly transform the future of vascular medicine. At a time when diabetes-related vascular complications often led to amputation, Dotter began questioning whether blocked arteries could be treated in a completely different way.

Driven by curiosity and persistence, he explored new techniques that many of his colleagues considered impossible or even dangerous. Through one particularly challenging case involving an elderly woman living
with insulin-dependent diabetes, Dotter’s unconventional approach would begin to change the way doctors understood vascular disease.

Blending medical history with innovation and human resilience, the chapter highlights how one bold idea opened the door to new possibilities for PwD and cardiovascular complications.

Are you curious to learn about the long quest to understand diabetes? Explore this fascinating story in Chapter 15 of Readings on Diabetes.

Readings on Diabetes

UPCOMING EVENTS ACROSS EUROPE

Liver Disease Prevention Village by ELPA
Esplanade – European Parliament, Brussels, June 1-5, 2026

“Economics of Obesity and Metabolic Health Summit”
Online, June 10, 2026, 17:00 CET | Read more and register here

European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) 62nd Annual Meeting
Milan, September 28 – October 2, 2026 | For more information, click here

IDF Europe Symposium at EASD 2026
Milan, October 1, 2026, 10:30-12:00 CET | More information will be available soon

Follow us on social media!

Make sure to follow us to stay up to date with our latest news and events:

Do you want to know more about IDF Europe’s news and events? Please confirm that you are still happy to hear from us!

Give your consent here!