Unmet needs in women’s health still undermine their universal right to health and require urgent and concrete action. This was brought into sharp focus last month during International Women’s Day, under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action.”
Too often, women’s health needs are overlooked. Differences in how health conditions affect women are not consistently reflected in research, diagnosis or care. Medical systems have long been shaped around male-centric data and assumptions, leaving critical gaps in understanding and supporting women’s health. These gaps
have tangible, real-world consequences.
For example, women living with diabetes face challenges linked to both biological and social factors. Hormonal changes across the life course, from puberty and menstruation to pregnancy and menopause, can significantly affect blood glucose patterns, insulin sensitivity and treatment responses, making diabetes management more complex. In addition, gender-related aspects – including caregiving responsibilities, socio-economic inequalities and differences in how symptoms are recognised and acted upon, including a greater likelihood of their being overlooked or misattributed – can have a further impact on access to timely diagnosis and care. Yet clinical protocols, care delivery and
research often fail to adequately reflect these realities, and women remain underrepresented in trials and clinical studies. As a result:
Women are diagnosed, on average, 4.5 years later than men.
Women living with diabetes have a 13 % higher risk of all-cause mortality compared with men.
Women face a 30 % greater risk of cardiovascular mortality than men.
Women living with diabetes are about one-third more likely to develop depression.
Closing the sex- and gender gap requires more than awareness; it demands targeted policy action.
A key opportunity for progress lies in the
European Parliament’s FEMM Committee’sown-initiative report on gender inequalities in health. The report recognises that decades of male-centric medical research have created gaps across the healthcare cycle, from clinical trials and drug development to diagnostics and treatment, and calls for a more inclusive, sex- and gender-sensitive approach to health policy and research. This includes, for example, personalised diagnostic and treatment strategies that take into account hormonal changes and pregnancy-related risks, a dedicated women’s health research agenda, and the importance of designing and testing medical devices for
diverse anatomical characteristics across populations.
Among the voices driving this change is MEP Sirpa Pietikäinen, Member of the MEPs Mobilising for Diabetes Interest Group (MMD) and shadow rapporteur for the SANT opinion on the FEMM report, who emphasises:
“Diabetes does not affect everyone equally. Women face distinct biological challenges linked to hormonal changes throughout their lives, yet these realities are still insufficiently reflected in research, clinical trials and care. Combined with persistent gender biases, this leads to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. Closing these gaps requires a more inclusive approach, one that places women’s experiences at the heart of decision-making and strengthens sex- and gender-sensitive health policy. The European Parliament’s ongoing work on gender inequalities in health is a key opportunity to drive this change and help build health systems that are more equitable, responsive and fit for all.”
MEP Sirpa Pietikäinen
MMD Member
IDF EUROPE, NEWS, ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
IDF Europe TEAM Meeting and Regional Council 2026
On March 27–28, we held our TEAM Meeting (Together Everyone Achieves More) bringing together member associations, partners and representatives from other health organisations. Key sessions explored the national implementation of the EU Safe Hearts Plan, the use of AI in association management, the potential and safety of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and existing and potential collaborations across chronic disease communities.
The programme featured award lectures from the co-winners of the IDF Europe Advocate Award 2025, Davor Skeledzija and Marcello Grussu, recognising their contributions to diabetes advocacy. The event concluded with a networking dinner, where IDF Europe presented its Exceptional Partnership Award to Maurizio Guidi, from Eli Lilly, and celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Portuguese Diabetes Association (APDP), with a commemorative award received by Prof. Boavida.
On March 29, we met again with our member associations for our annual Regional Council where we reviewed our 2025 activities and outlined our priorities for 2026. The meeting also provided a platform for member associations to present their national initiatives, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration to strengthen the impact of the IDF Europe network.
IDF Europe Symposium at ATTD 2026
During this year’s ATTD 2026, we hosted a symposium on how innovation and early intervention can improve outcomes for people living with, or at risk of, diabetes. The event focused on three key areas: early-stage type 1 diabetes (T1D) detection and monitoring, including the role of language and communication; protecting heart health through effective diabetes prevention and management; and the use of CGMs in preventing and managing diabetes and obesity.
We extend our sincere thanks to our moderator, Jaivir Pall, and to all those who joined the symposium, and especially to our speakers, Dr Sufyan Hussain, Marissa Town, Prof. Tsvetalina Tankova and Dr. Sanja Klobučar, for their insightful and engaging presentations.
New publication on T1D screening
During our ATTD symposium, IDF Europe Board Member, Dr. Sufyan Hussain, officially launched a new publication: “An international consensus on screening and monitoring early-stage type 1 diabetes: a roadmap to European implementation”.
Supported and facilitated by IDF Europe, the paper summarises the latest evidence on early T1D screening and provides policy recommendations to guide decision-makers across Europe in implementing effective screening programmes.
IDF Europe Expert Day report:
advancing diabetes prevention and care
Last December, we convened an Expert Day bringing together people living with diabetes (PwD), healthcare professionals (HCPs), researchers and policymakers to explore the latest advances in diabetes prevention and care. Discussions highlighted key innovations, from T2D remission to progress towards a functional cure for T1D, and how these advances can improve health outcomes across Europe.
The event report captures the key evidence and insights from the event, alongside policy actionsneeded to bridge the gap between scientific progress and
real-world care.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all contributors and participants, as well as partner organisations including the European Liver Patients’ Association, the European Society of Cardiology and the European Kidney Health Alliance.
On March 20, we had the pleasure of meeting with European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola, alongside Chris Delicata, IDF Europe Advisor and President of the Maltese Diabetes Association, to discuss ways to strengthen the prevention, management and care of chronic conditions such as diabetes.
We warmly thank President Metsola for her long-standing support for the diabetes community and her strong commitment to advancing EU policies that improve health outcomes and quality of life for PwD and those at risk.
EU Commission Conference
on medical devices
On March 16, IDF Europe Director of Strategy & Policy, Sabine Dupont, participated in the European Commission High-Level Conference on “Medical devices: innovation and patient safety”.
As part of one of the breakout sessions, she presented a case study on CGMs, highlighting the need for harmonised standards to ensure
safe and effective medical devices are placed on the market. The session emphasised the importance of robust and transparent clinical evidence to inform procurement decisions and support high-quality clinical practice.
IDF Europe at the FOKUS Patient Event
On March 16-17, IDF Europe Regional Manager, Elisabeth Dupont, participated in the FOKUS Patient Event in Stockholm, contributing to panel discussions on dementia prevention and the links between chronic conditions such as diabetes and brain health.
The discussion underscored the importance of recognising the interconnectedness of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the need for integrated approaches to prevention, early detection and management.
ESWI-IDC meeting on respiratory infections
On March 5, IDF Europe Chair-Elect, Prof. Raposo, joined the kick-off meeting of the Interdisciplinary Disease Collaboration (IDC) on Respiratory Infections and NCDs, organised by the European Scientific Working group on Influenza (ESWI), and contributed to discussions on the link between diabetes and respiratory infections.
The exchange emphasised the importance of strengthening infection prevention within diabetes care, improving vaccination uptake and collaboration across disciplines.
Save the date: IDF Europe Symposium at EASD
The IDF Europe Symposium, held during the EASD 62nd Annual Meeting, will take place on Thursday, 1 October, from 11:00 to 12:30 in Milan, and will be followed by a networking lunch.
More information about the Symposium will be available soon. Stay tuned!
MEMBER NEWS
Join the Blue on Sail initiative by the Hellenic Diabetes Federation
In August 2025, the Hellenic Diabetes Federation (ELODI) launched the Blue on Sail initiative, a public awareness and educational project combining diabetes education with the values of teamwork, endurance and freedom inspired by sailing. Blue on Sail 2 returns on May 9–11 in Lefkada, offering a unique, life-changing sailing experience for PwD. Participation is free! If you are 18+ and living with diabetes, don’t miss this opportunity.
Join the DiaVolley Cup
by Diador in Bratislava, Slovakia
The DiaVolley Cup will take place from July 15–18, 2026 in Bratislava, Slovakia. Hosted by IDF Europe member, Diador, this mixed volleyball tournament brings together adults living with diabetes for four days of sport, teamwork and community building.
All participants must be 18 or older and live with diabetes.
On March 18-21, the Hellenic Diabetes Association held the 24th Panhellenic Diabetes Conference, bringing together over 1,800 participants to discuss the latest advances in diabetes care, prevention and management.
A highlight of the event was the Aretaios Lecture delivered by Prof. Tadej Battelino, IDF Europe Regional Chair, on “Time in tight
range: early detection and reversal of hyperglycemia”, in recognition of his contribution to the field.
The Union of Associations of Persons with Diabetes of Macedonia marked its 25th anniversary with a community-focused conference on March 20–21. IDF Europe representatives Uroš Bogdanović, Elisabeth Dupont and Maya Victorova contributed to sessions on youth advocacy, European collaboration and person-centred care, and joined side meetings with national health authorities and local diabetes associations to discuss
policy changes to improve access to diabetes care for PwD in North Macedonia.
“Football is Medicine”:
promoting physical activity
through football
During the IDF Europe Regional Council 2026 in Ljubljana, participants were introduced to “Football is Medicine”, a research-based initiative to promote physical activity through football. Presented by May-Britt Skoradal, the initiative includes a new manual adapting the approach for people living with T2D. A demonstration session showcased how football fitness can be tailored to different needs.
Those interested in learning more or exploring implementation opportunities are encouraged to get in touch.
APDP President, Prof. Boavida, delivered a speech reflecting on a century of progress in diabetes care, highlighting APDP’s pioneering role in education, social inclusion and improving quality of life for
PwD, as well as its vision for the future. On this occasion, APDP received an IDF Europe award in recognition of its longstanding contribution to the diabetes community.
The diabetes community loses an esteemed member in Lyudmila Ivanivna Petrenko
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Lyudmila Ivanivna Petrenko, President of the International Diabetes Association of Ukraine, whose dedication and leadership made a lasting impact on the diabetes community. Her tireless energy and unwavering commitment transformed diabetes care in Ukraine and saved countless lives. Our deepest condolences go to her family, colleagues and loved ones. Her dedication and achievements will continue to inspire the diabetes community for many years to come.
YOUTH PLATFORM
Applications for the IDF Europe YLL 2026 are now closed
The applications for the IDF Europe Youth Leadership Lab (YLL) 2026 are now closed. We wish to thank everyone who applied as well as our Member Associations and all those who shared news about the YLL with their networks. We received many excellent applications and we will inform the selected participants of the results over the next few weeks.
We look forward to meeting our successful applicants soon!
HEALTH RELATED NEWS
EPF | Recommendations for the trilogue negotiations on the Critical Medicines Act
As trilogue negotiations on the Critical Medicines Act (CMA) are ongoing at EU level, the European Patients’ Forum (EPF) has published a set of recommendations, including the meaningful involvement of people with lived experience throughout CMA implementation and effective EU joint procurement systems to improve the availability, affordability and accessibility of medicines across the EU. Read more
Member States’ initiative to reinstate operating grants for health NGOs under EU4Health
Backed by several EU Member States, France launched an initiative to reinstate operating grants for non-governmental organisations under the EU4Health Programme from 2026 onwards. Operating grants and sustainable funding are essential to ensure civil society organisations can continue bringing the voices and lived experiences of people, including those living with diabetes, into EU health policymaking. Read more
Nature Health, op-ed by Hans Kluge | “A healthy population is a strategic advantage”
In a new op-ed published in Nature Health, WHO Europe Regional Director, Dr. Hans Kluge, argues that health is a strategic investment underpinning security, economic growth and demographic resilience. He highlights that chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancers drive premature death and lost productivity in Europe. With ageing populations and rising pressures, he stresses that investing in prevention, primary care and healthier living is essential to sustain economies and ensure resilient societies. Read more
EMA | Insulin supply update
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has issued a notice regarding the discontinuation of certain Eli Lilly insulin presentations containing human insulin, insulin lispro and insulin glargine in selected countries. The specific products affected and the timelines for their withdrawal differ across EU/EEA countries. All discontinuations are expected to occur before Q2 2027, after which the affected insulin presentations will no longer be available. Read more
UNDERSTANDING DIABETES
World Kidney Day: “Caring for people, protecting the planet”
On World Kidney Day (March 12), under the theme “Kidney health for all: caring for people, protecting the planet”, we highlighted the links between kidney disease, diabetes and planetary health.
Environmental factors such as pollution, heat and climate-related disruptions can increase the risk of T2D, complicate glucose management, strain kidney function and disrupt access to medicines and dialysis. In addition, the healthcare sector has a significant environmental footprint.
Prevention, early screening and more sustainable healthcare systems are essential to protect both people and the planet.
World Oral Health Day: “A happy mouth is a happy life”
On World Oral Health Day (March 20), we raised awareness of the importance of oral health and its link with diabetes.
PwD are at higher risk of conditions like gingivitis, cavities, periodontitis and taste impairments due to the changes in the body caused by the condition.
A good oral hygiene routine is important to prevent diabetes-related oral health complications. However, there is still much to learn about the connection between diabetes and oral health. Further research on oral complications, along with the adoption of integrated care strategies, is key to improving prevention and care for PwD.
EU RESEARCH PROJECTS
ASSESS DHT updates
IDF Europe is part of ASSESS DHT, a Horizon 2020 project aiming to boost the adoption of trustworthy and effective Digital Health Technologies (DHT) across Europe. Consortium partners are currently seeking input from various stakeholders. Explore the open call and surveys:
OPEN CALL
Consortium partners are seeking specialist input to test and help refine the project’s assessment framework for DHT in Europe. We encourage experts in DHT development and Health Technology Assessment (HTA) bodies to join our expert group.
SURVEY FOR PATIENTS AND CLINICIANS
Consortium partners are conducting a European survey to increase understanding of how people with lived experience and HCPs can meaningfully contribute to the evaluation of DHT.
SURVEY FOR HTA AND DECISION MAKERS
Consortium partners are also conducting a parallel survey targeting professionals involved in HTA agencies, payer and insurance organisations, ministries and regulatory bodies, hospital-based HTA units and policy and decision-making committees to explore current practices, barriers and opportunities for improving patient and clinical involvement in the evaluation of DHT.
IDF Europe is proud to be part of the DigiCare4You Horizon 2020 project, which aims to improve early prevention and management of T2D and hypertension (HTN).
Join the DigiCare4You closing event!
The DigiCare4You final event will take place on April 29, in Brussels. This high-level gathering will bring together policymakers, public health leaders, PwD and other stakeholders to shape the future of innovative solutions for the prevention and management of T2D and HTN. Participants will gain insights into the project’s key achievements and outcomes and will also be given the opportunity to contribute to the development of a roadmap to support implementation at national level.
There are still a few available spots for participants to join the event. If you’re interested, please send an email to izabell.thunstrom@idf-europe.org for more information.
Interview with Christina Pelekanou
DigiCare4You recently published an interview with Christina Pelekanou, DigiCare4You implementer from Greece. In the interview, she explains how she supports families, particularly parents living with T2D or intermediate hyperglycaemia, by guiding them in making small, sustainable lifestyle changes at home. She shares how these changes can improve blood glucose, body weight, energy, mood and self-confidence, while also positively influencing children’s health.
“By personalising advice and setting realistic goals, we help families overcome daily challenges and create lasting impact,”
she says.
In another interview, Stella Vlachou, a DigiCare4You participant from Greece living with intermediate hyperglycaemia, shares her experiences. She talks about her motivation to join the programme, the surprises and challenges she faced and the positive changes she has experienced. Stella also reflects on her hopes for the future and how the programme has helped her take concrete steps towards better health.
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.
13. The Leopard
Set during the time of Italy’s unification, “The Leopard” by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa tells the story of a Sicilian noble family facing a period of major change. As old traditions begin to fade and a new social order emerges, the novel captures this shift through the famous line: “If we want everything to stay as it is, everything must change.”
Alongside its historical story, the novel also includes a powerful and often overlooked element: the impact of diabetes. Through two characters, Tomasi di Lampedusa describes the serious complications of the
disease, including diabetes foot, at a time when little was known about how to treat it.
By bringing together literature, history and medicine, this chapter shows how stories from the past can help us better understand the human side of living with diabetes.
Are you curious to learn about the long quest to understand diabetes? Explore this fascinating story in Chapter 13 of Readings on Diabetes.
