Project for the treatment of Diabetes
The Forum decided at its Marrakech meeting in December 2004 to set up a European project to identify how best healthcare practices can be better coordinated in the treatment of diabetes. In 2003, there were 194 million diabetics worldwide and this figure is forecast to rise to 333 million in 2025.
Three suppliers of equipment and pharmaceutical products for the treatment of diabetes (Roche Diagnostics, Becton & Dickinson and Sanofi-Aventis) were also present at the seminar in Morocco to present and discuss the research and development work currently being carried out. The resulting round table discussions were described as "extremely useful leading to a mutual understanding of the various issues involved."
Patient involvement
Jean-Etienne Martineau, President of the Forum said: "There are currently 10.7 million diabetics in the countries represented within the Forum. This amounts to 5.5% of the population. Furthermore, the direct costs of diabetes worldwide are set to soar from 153 billion in 2003 to 213 -396 billion in 2025."Advisory role of pharmacy
He continued: "The pharmacy, by virtue of its proximity with the patient, should not be left out of the communication or supply loop. Furthermore, the advisory role of the pharmacy is prescribed by legislation in various European countries. But whether legally defined or not, this status quo should be professionally maintained and encouraged. That is why the Forum has decided to play a leading role in developing a joint approach to eventual healthcare treatment of diabetes.""In France for example, 25% of patients are unaware of their illness. Diagnosis often comes too late, with the onset of initial complications. Fighting the disease is therefore dependent on reinforcing screening measures and improving therapeutic treatment."
