TREATMENT OF DIABETES

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28869, 14 April 1959, Page 2

TREATMENT OF DIABETES

Conference Report

Comment

The third triennial congress of the International Diabetes Federation was held recently in Dusseldorf. attended by about 1800 persons from 42 countries, including about 1100 doctors and medical scientists. New Zealand, which is not a member country, was not represented Special sections were devoted to papers and discussions on diabetic children and diabetes detection drives. It was held that isolation could be a problem with the diabetic children, and association with other diabetic children in diabetic summer camps was strongly advocated. Reports submitted proved that summer camps were a great success in various countries

Diabetes detection drives were an integral part of the successful handling of the diabetic problem and the detecting of the “hidden diabetic” was of paramount importance. The early detection of diabetes meant that it was found in a mild form and the treatment and control was of a much simpler and easier nature The congress recommended that diabetic associations all over the world should give consideration to holding diabetes detection drives.

Commenting on this report, Mr L. H. Beardsley, president of the Nelson Diabetic Society (with which is incorporated Marlborough and Westland), said that the Nelson society had already established a trust fund from its street day appeal towards diabetic children’s camps At its annual meeting, the aims and objects of the-society would be amended to give effect to the recommendation of the international congress to make provision for diabetes detection drives, he said.

An appeal would be launched for funds to carry it out. as it would be impassible for the money to be found from the subscriptions of diabetic members. Mr Beardsley said. The early detection of diabetes in its mild form could mean a considerable saving in Social Security medicines, and in many cases obviate the necessity oi diabetics going to hospital, thu.making a further saving