Type 1 diabetes: research, care, and education
Fr1da, Freder1k, and Po1nt are just a few of the numerous studies that have been initiated at the IDF. Its deputy director, Prof. Dr. Peter Achenbach, gave the advisory board an impressive presentation on the entire type 1 diabetes research landscape at Helmholtz Munich, a partner in the DZD, and, together with scientists from his team, answered all of the CAB's questions. The highlight was the visit to the laboratories. The Advisory Board agreed that it would like to support the IDF in its educational work on type 1 diabetes among the general public.
Exchange with young DZD scientists
The time between the tour and the start of the meeting on the Helmholtz Munich campus was used for an exchange with young DZD researchers. Four enthusiastic young scientists presented their current research projects to the advisory board in short pitches and then engaged in direct discussions with the advisory board members in small groups. There were interesting questions and answers on both sides – a valuable exchange for everyone involved.
DZD-CAB welcomes its 9th member
At the beginning of the meeting, Josephine Jung-Schöneck was officially welcomed as a new member of the DZD-CAB. She is a citizen and relative and is interested in nutrition issues and health policy. The advisory board now has nine members.
Activities of the CAB and the DZD
In addition to developments since the last meeting, the DZD reported on activities including the open house of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the Federal Ministry of Health, as well as events surrounding World Diabetes Day on November 14. Individual advisory board members were also active outside of the meetings and reported on their participation in various events, such as the EASD conference, the NCT patient conference, and the patient event “Milestones in Modern Diabetology.” Some advisory board members also serve on various committees, such as the DZG-AG Patient Participation or the BMFTR Health Research Forum. One advisory board member is also involved in the development of the European guideline on diabetes prevention.
Health data: How is it protected and used securely?
In introductory presentations, members of the DZD research data management team provided answers to the most important questions: How is (health) data protected in Germany and Europe, and how is medical data used in the DZD? The different types of health data donations were discussed, as well as the advantages and disadvantages that can arise from the use of this data.
In small groups, the members then discussed the pros and cons of health data donations for research and what conditions must be met for opt-out solutions to be approved. The discussions focused on the protection of personal data versus the importance of using health data for medical progress.
Future prospects
The next face-to-face meeting will take place in spring 2026. Among other topics, the focus will be on the application of artificial intelligence in research.
The Board
The Citizens' and Patients' Advisory Board has been supporting the work of the DZD since 2021. It advises the DZD on the translational research strategy and research projects as well as on the DZD's public relations work from the perspective of citizens and patients. The committee consists of people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, relatives and interested citizens.
