A global diabetes research agenda

This project seeks to address the research-policy gap in the field of diabetes by developing a policy-relevant, scientifically rigorous global research agenda on diabetes that can be acted upon by the newly launched WHO’s Global Diabetes Compact.

Background

Diabetes is one of the five Noncommunicable diseases (NCD), that are prioritised by the World Health Organization (WHO) for being the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. The majority of people with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Without appropriate prevention interventions, the number of people concerned is expected to grow.

Much research on diabetes prevention and care exists globally, but it is not used in policy or practice. In addition, the research generated is more focused on high income countries (HIC) versus LMICs. This results in gaps in knowledge as well as policy decisions being made based on experiences not adapted to LMIC context.

The knowledge gap was recognised in 2021 by the World Health Assembly (WHA)’s Resolution 74.4 which created the Global Diabetes Compact, a global initiative to frame the global diabetes prevention and care agenda and formally recognised the need for developing a global research agenda.

Aim

The project aims to develop a policy-relevant, scientifically rigorous research agenda on diabetes to address the research-policy gap in this field and to assist with the implementation of WHO’s Global Diabetes Compact.

Impact

Policies to prevent the increase in the number of cases of diabetes are increasingly informed by research. This ensures that the management and care of people with diabetes is optimised, and therefore contributes to decreasing diabetes-related morbidity and mortality.

Key activities

1. Qualitative and quantitative survey  with key policy makers and their counterparts from each of the 6 Regions of the WHO to assess knowledge gaps, research priorities and key barriers to  research uptake by policymakers.
2. Multi-stakeholder consultation to present and discuss the results and generate buy-in
3. Launch of the report  for wider information-sharing and further feedback
4. Finalisation of the overall prioritised research agenda and dissemination  via the WHO and other networks

Project updates

• Translating research for better diabetes policies: a multistakeholder workshop, 30 November 2023
• Editorial | From research to policy: still a long way to go, The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, January 2024

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