GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are revolutionizing diabetes care by offering more than just blood sugar control. These medications not only help manage type 2 diabetes (T2D) but also aid in weight loss and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. By mimicking a hormone that regulates insulin and glucose, GLP-1 RAs improve glucose metabolism, making them a promising treatment for patients with T2D, especially those with obesity or heart disease.

As the science behind these medications evolves, they continue to show significant potential in transforming the way we approach T2D management. For healthcare professionals and patients alike, understanding the benefits and risks of GLP-1 RAs is crucial for optimizing treatment plans.

Read more in our blog post:

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Discover how GLP-1 receptor agonists are transforming the landscape of diabetes care

If you're living with type 2 diabetes in British Columbia, understanding your medication options and coverage is crucial.

The HealthLink BC Type 2 Diabetes guide provides comprehensive information on various medications, including:

• Metformin: Often the first-line treatment, helping to lower blood sugar levels.

• SGLT2 Inhibitors (e.g., canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin): These medications help the kidneys remove glucose from the bloodstream and have been associated with weight loss and cardiovascular benefits.

• GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (e.g., dulaglutide, liraglutide): Injections that stimulate insulin production and slow gastric emptying.

• DPP-4 Inhibitors (e.g., linagliptin): Oral medications that increase insulin release and decrease glucose production.

If you’re living with type 2 diabetes in British Columbia and want to stay ahead of potential complications, check out HealthLink BC’s Diabetes Complications guide.

It clearly explains how prolonged high blood sugar can damage various systems in your body, eyes (retinopathy, glaucoma), blood vessels (heart attack, stroke), nerves (neuropathy), feet (ulcers, infections), kidneys (nephropathy), and even your immune defences, along with tips for prevention and when to seek medical help.

The resource also emphasizes the importance of regular check‑ups, early detection, and effective blood sugar control to avoid or slow the progression of these issues

If you're caring for someone with type 2 diabetes in Canada, having access to practical, trustworthy information makes a big difference. The Government of Canada's Living with diabetes page is a solid starting point.

It covers the basics of blood sugar monitoring, medication, and healthy eating, but also goes further with links to diabetes education programs, foot care services, Indigenous-specific supports, and mental health resources. It also outlines how to access local diabetes care teams and community programs, which can help share the load when you're supporting someone day to day.

It’s a practical, no-nonsense hub for both patients and caregivers looking to navigate the Canadian healthcare system more effectively.

Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing is hosting two national virtual engagement sessions — and we want to hear from you on:

Social prescribing is a healthcare approach that connects people to non-medical supports, like community groups, exercise programs, or arts activities, to improve their health and wellbeing.

▪️What’s needed to strengthen social prescribing in Canada?

▪️Where can CISP have the greatest impact?

▪️How do we build a future that centres community wellbeing?

Whether you're a health care provider, community partner, researcher, policymaker, or someone passionate about social prescribing — your insights will help guide the way forward.

Did you miss our vodcast? No problem, here's a synopsis.

Krista Lamb had a great conversation with Ian Patton, Director of Advocacy and Patient Engagement at Obesity Canada. They talked about the organization's mission to fight weight bias and improve access to quality, evidence-based obesity care. Ian also shared insights on the Canadian Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guideline, a key resource in obesity management and its connection to T2D.

Watch the full episode here and view more of our expert insights on our T2D Network YouTube page.

Canadian nephrologist Dr. Jason Fung presents a compelling case for reversing type 2 diabetes through dietary changes and intermittent fasting. He challenges conventional treatment methods and offers a natural approach to managing and potentially reversing the condition. The book is well-regarded for its clear explanations and actionable strategies.​

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1) How do you see structural barriers—such as housing insecurity or income instability—most significantly affecting diabetes management outcomes in disadvantaged populations?

2) What role can frontline healthcare providers, especially nurses, play in addressing social determinants of health within clinical settings to improve diabetes care equity?

We’ve got an exciting event coming up! Dr. David Campbell, a clinician-scientist from the University of Calgary, joins host Krista Lamb to discuss his work studying diabetes in those experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. Dr. Campbell's research considers the importance of strategies that remove structural barriers to needed healthcare. His team also looks at how to provide solutions that are empathetic and foster mutual respect. In addition, Dr. Campbell will discuss his out-of-the-box knowledge mobilization strategies, including his team's short film, Low, and the photo voice exhibit, Home Sweet Homeless.

Dr. David Campbell is an Internal Medicine and Endocrinology specialist at the University of Calgary whose research focuses on health equity and improving diabetes care for socially disadvantaged populations.

During the recording, Dr. David Campbell will answer the audience’s questions, so be sure to join us live to participate!