Designing A Centralized Digital Platform To Support Type 2 Diabetes: From Idea To Implementation
Our most recent manuscript explores the process of developing a digital hub for T2D based on best evidence. This centralized digital platform for T2DM in British Columbia demonstrates the potential of user-centered, co-designed solutions to transform chronic disease management.
Addressing Type 2 Diabetes in South Asian Populations: Why Culturally Tailored Approaches Matter
Our recent umbrella review highlights effective strategies for T2DM prevention and management in South Asians, including dietary changes, physical activity, education, and digital health tools, especially when adapted to cultural contexts.
T2D Network Resource Hub/Library
Welcome to our Diabetes Network Resource Hub, a source for diabetes-related material to support conversation and collaboration amongst clinicians, researchers, policy makers, and population health experts.
Here you'll find our past vodcasts, audio series, podcast series, peer-review journal publications, webinars and more.
Our New Vodcast Series
Diversity in Research
Dr. Baiju Shah explores how inclusive, culturally sensitive research can uncover health inequities.
They explore:
✅ Diversity is crucial in diabetes research.
✅ Inclusive, culturally sensitive studies reveal health inequities.
✅ Findings guide more effective, tailored interventions.
Active Transportation
Dr. Jon McGavock discussed active transportation, and how urban infrastructure can nudge people to move.
They explore:
✅ Active transportation increases daily movement for people with type 2 diabetes.
✅Small behavioral “nudges” encourage consistent activity.
✅Supportive environments make everyday movement easier.
Integrating Health Information
Dr. Shazhan Amed is a pediatric endocrinologist with a keen interest in health data integration and accessibility.
They explore:
✅ Innovations in diabetes care and how health data plays a role
✅ Integration of health information across multi-platforms
✅ Goals to improve patient outcomes by making data more accessible
Social Determinants of Health
Dr. Campbell shared insights from his research focused on people living with homelessness or food insecurity and how these conditions impact diabetes care.
They explore:
✅ The role of structural barriers in limiting access to diabetes care
✅ The importance of empathy and mutual respect in healthcare delivery
✅ Innovative knowledge mobilization tools, including the short film Low and the photo voice exhibit Home Sweet Homeless
More Science, Less Stigma
Krista Lamb had a great conversation with Ian Patton, Director of Advocacy and Patient Engagement at Obesity Canada. Ian shared insights on the Canadian Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guideline, a key resource in obesity management and its connection to T2D.
They explore:
✅ Weight bias and access to quality care
✅ Evidence-based obesity care
✅ The overlap between obesity care and T2D
Understanding Stigma in T2D
In this insightful discussion, Krista Lamb interviews Dr. Finegood, a professor at Simon Fraser University, about the impact of stigma in Type 2 diabetes.
They explore:
✅ The current landscape of diabetes stigma
✅ What people living with diabetes want to change
✅ How healthcare providers can make a difference
Diabetes and Mental Health
Explore the connection between mental health and diabetes with Dr. Mahavir Agarwal, University of Toronto's Schizophrenia Division, and Dr. Diana Sherifali, Associate Professor in the School of Nursing at McMaster University.
They explore:
✅ Strategies to improve overall health and well-being.
✅How stigma affects those with T2D
✅The power of collaboration and compassion
Audio Series
Audio Interview Series: Your Health and You, Diabetes Two
Discover insights on holistic health and managing diabetes in two enlightening audio interviews. Join Dr. Arun Garg in the "Your Health and You, Diabetes Two" two-part series as he shares valuable perspectives and delves into essential information and practical tips for navigating life with diabetes. Elevate your health journey with these insightful conversations.
Dr. Arun Garg is the program medical director of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology and medical director of the South Asian Health Institute.
Topic: Food
Topic: Integrated Therapies
Project Reports
The South Asian Women's Type 2 Diabetes Round Table
The South Asian Women's Type 2 Diabetes Round Table, held on October 27, 2023, stands as a pivotal initiative in the collaborative efforts of the Canadian India Network Society (CINS) and the Institute for Health System Transformation and Sustainability (IHSTS).
This third session underscored the urgency of addressing the significantly elevated risk of type 2 diabetes among South Asian Canadians, particularly focusing on the crucial role of women within this demographic.
With cultural nuances influencing health decisions and behavior change across generations, South Asian women grapple with multifaceted challenges in managing their own diabetes amidst familial responsibilities and societal expectations. The round table, structured as an online focus group, provided a platform for eight participants to share their lived experiences, contributing to a nuanced understanding of barriers, challenges, and potential solutions.
The outcomes of this session not only shed light on the diverse and complex landscape of type 2 diabetes within the South Asian Canadian population but also furnish actionable insights for tailoring diabetes care strategies.
As we delve into the comprehensive summary, the round table emerges as a vital step toward redefining approaches to diabetes prevention, self-management, and alleviating the burdens faced by South Asian women in their healthcare journey.
Podcast Series
In this podcast series, host Krista Lamb sits down with prominent diabetes researchers in British Columbia, Canada. Krista discusses the many aspects of diabetes research and the exciting work being done by members of the BC Diabetes Research Network.
The podcast title “From Beta Cells to Bicycles” refers to the multi-disciplinary nature of diabetes research in BC – from laboratory discoveries to nutrition and exercise sciences– the BC Diabetes Research Network researchers are working on many fronts to expand what we know about diabetes, while working towards a cure.
Podcast Series: From Beta Cells to Bicycles
Peer-review Journal Publications
Addressing Type 2 Diabetes in South Asian Populations: Why Culturally Tailored Approaches Matter
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a global health crisis affecting South Asian populations at higher rates due to genetic, lifestyle, and cultural factors. To meet these communities’ unique needs, targeted interventions are essential.
Our recent umbrella review highlights effective strategies for T2DM prevention and management in South Asians, including dietary changes, physical activity, education, and digital health tools, especially when adapted to cultural contexts. For example, dietary programs that incorporate familiar ingredients or exercise options that respect cultural norms improve engagement and outcomes.
Culturally tailored solutions that engage family support and community leaders help reduce stigma and encourage healthier habits. Mobile apps available in local languages also increase accessibility and participation.
Overall, collaborative, community-driven approaches that consider cultural, social, and economic factors are crucial for successful diabetes management in South Asian communities. This perspective allows healthcare providers to design more impactful, inclusive interventions.
Explore the NHS Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) in our latest peer-reviewed publication titled: The National Health Service England Diabetes Prevention Program—A Narrative Review.
The NHS DPP, a UK initiative since 2015, is working to prevent type 2 diabetes across England. This review assesses its effectiveness, emphasizing risk reduction and cost-effectiveness. It explores the challenges associated with a DPP, including fidelity and diverse population needs. Key recommendations involve evidence-based service delivery, stakeholder engagement, and digital innovation as well as strategic planning, political support, and partnerships.
The learnings from this diabetes program review can be applied to other health programs that focus on chronic disease prevention.
Webinars
Research
Organizations
