Diabetes research funding plummets by 35%: Consultation launched to reverse decline

Medical & Science: Australia’s diabetes crisis is deepening, with calls for urgent action growing louder. The Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport’s recent report outlined 23 critical recommendations aimed at tackling diabetes, from increasing research funding and improving care, to better leveraging innovative health technologies.

Now, Diabetes Australia is pushing forward with a consultation paper that seeks stakeholder input on shaping a national vision for diabetes research, including its purpose, strategic goals, and approach.

The urgency is clear. Over the past decade, funding for diabetes research in Australia has plummeted by more than 35%, despite a 32% surge in people living with the disease.

In 2023, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) allocated just $19 million to diabetes research – less than half of what was provided the previous year. This stark reduction has left the future of diabetes research in Australia at a critical juncture.

In response, Diabetes Australia, the Australian Diabetes Society (ADS), and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) have submitted a joint plea to the Federal Government, emphasising the urgent need for increased funding for diabetes research.

“Research is the foundation of the management of any chronic disease, including diabetes, and embedding the lessons into clinical practice is because of research. There is no way that we would have had these advances in technology, both in insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), without research” asserted A/Professor Andrikopoulos in a recent Health Industry Hub interview.

With over 1.4 million people registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) and an estimated 500,000 Australians living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, the burden on the healthcare system is immense. 

The financial burden of diabetes on Australia’s healthcare system is staggering, costing around $3.4 billion annually. However, as Diabetes Australia points out, investing in medical research brings returns – almost $4 for every dollar spent.

“We anticipate that the return on investment for diabetes research is even higher. This return is generated through better treatments that reduce the impact of serious complications and prevent or reduce hospital admissions,” the organisation stated.

Diabetes Australia’s research vision is ambitious, targeting the prevention of disease, improving quality of life for those affected, reducing financial strain, and ultimately, finding a cure. This multi-pronged strategy reflects the “complexity and prevalence of the condition”, making it clear that the time for action is now.

To contribute, complete the consultation survey by 27 September 2024.

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