RSSDI and Sanofi India’s Social Impact Program on Type 1 Diabetes Shows Promising Results in Reducing Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia

Hyderabad: The Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), in collaboration with Sanofi India Limited (SIL), has reported significant positive outcomes from their social impact program focused on Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Launched in January 2021, this initiative aims to establish a universal standard-of-care for the diagnosis and management of T1D, particularly among the pediatric population and young adults.

The program’s efforts have led to a noteworthy reduction in cases of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia among children living with T1D. According to the data shared, the number of children experiencing hypoglycemia (1 to 4 times per week) has decreased by 46%, down from 70%, while cases of hyperglycemia (1 to 4 times per week) have been reduced by 25%, down from 52%. These improvements underscore the program’s effectiveness in providing better care and management for T1D patients.

Currently, over 1,400 underprivileged children across India, including 72 from Telangana, are benefiting from this program. The initiative not only offers essential education on T1D management to patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals but also provides free insulin, syringes, lancets, and glucose strips to those in need.

“With an estimated 8.6 lakh T1D patients in India, we cannot afford to overlook the urgent needs of children living with this condition. By equipping healthcare professionals and educators with the necessary tools and knowledge, the program is enabling timely diagnosis and appropriate diabetes management required for the children to thrive,” said Dr. Rakesh Sahay, President of RSSDI.

T1D, often referred to as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, presents significant challenges in India due to the lack of dedicated centers with trained professionals, poor public awareness, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas. These challenges are further compounded by delayed diagnoses, insufficient education, and the socio-economic burden on families.

Dr. Sanjay Agarwal, Secretary of RSSDI, emphasized the program’s impact, stating, “RSSDI and Sanofi India are combining their respective experience and expertise to create a universal standard-of-care that provides access to treatment across India as per global recommendations. We are dedicated to transforming the landscape of T1D care in India.”

The program, implemented with the support of People-to-People Health Foundation (PPHF), aims to improve the health status of T1D patients by building a network of trained healthcare professionals and T1D educators across the country. The initiative also addresses the need for proper diagnosis and management to prevent chronic complications, which are prevalent among T1D patients.

Ms. Aparna Thomas, Senior Director of Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility at Sanofi India, expressed her satisfaction with the program’s progress: “We are hugely motivated by the impact of our social program’s intervention that is very quickly improving the quality of life in so many children living with Type 1 diabetes in India.”

The collaboration between RSSDI and Sanofi India is an essential step towards addressing the growing challenge of T1D in India, which, according to the Type 1 Diabetes Index, is increasing at an annual rate of 6.7%. The program aims to create sustainable solutions and improve the quality of life for those affected by T1D, ensuring they receive the care and support they need to manage their condition effectively.