Diabetes

Insulin Therapy & Delivery Technologies” will offer an in-depth exploration of the evolution and future direction of insulin use and its administration in diabetes care. Since the discovery of insulin over a century ago, it has remained a life-saving therapy for millions of individuals with Type 1 and advanced Type 2 diabetes. However, ongoing challenges such as optimal dosing, timing, patient adherence, and hypoglycemia risk have driven continuous innovation in both insulin formulations and delivery systems. Recent decades have seen the development of rapid-acting, long-acting, and ultra-long-acting insulin analogs, each designed to better mimic the body’s natural insulin patterns and improve glycemic control. These analogs have been instrumental in reducing fluctuations in blood glucose levels, lowering the incidence of severe hypoglycemia, and providing greater flexibility for patients. In addition to traditional subcutaneous injections, newer delivery options such as inhaled insulin, transdermal patches, and microneedle arrays are being explored for their potential to improve patient comfort and compliance. Research into glucose-responsive “smart insulin,” which activates only when needed based on blood glucose levels, is also underway and promises to revolutionize insulin therapy in the near future.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) & Biosensors will delve into one of the most transformative areas in diabetes management—real-time glucose tracking technologies that are reshaping the way diabetes is monitored, controlled, and understood. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems, alongside advanced biosensor platforms, have revolutionized traditional blood glucose testing by offering dynamic, minute-to-minute glucose data. CGM devices measure glucose levels continuously via a small sensor inserted under the skin, typically in the abdomen or upper arm. Unlike traditional finger-stick testing, CGMs provide round-the-clock monitoring, trend data, and alerts for hypo- or hyperglycemic episodes, enabling patients and healthcare providers to make more informed, timely decisions. This real-time insight into glucose fluctuations improves glycemic control, reduces the risk of complications, and enhances quality of life, particularly for those with Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent Type 2 diabetes.  Non-invasive biosensors—such as those utilizing interstitial fluid, sweat, tears, or saliva—are also being researched and developed, with the goal of eliminating the need for skin punctures entirely. Smartwatches and adhesive skin patches equipped with optical sensors and microfluidic systems are paving the way for discreet, continuous health tracking.

Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes will focus on the unique clinical challenges, psychosocial considerations, and treatment strategies involved in managing diabetes in children and teenagers. The incidence of diabetes—particularly Type 1 diabetes—in pediatric populations has been steadily increasing worldwide, and in recent years, Type 2 diabetes has also emerged as a growing concern among adolescents, primarily due to rising rates of childhood obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits. Managing diabetes in youth requires a specialized, multidisciplinary approach that addresses not only physiological and medical needs but also the emotional, behavioral, and developmental aspects of growing up with a chronic condition.Type 1 diabetes (T1D) remains the most common form of diabetes in children and adolescents, caused by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, leading to absolute insulin deficiency. The onset is often sudden and can present with symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and fatigue. Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of insulin therapy are critical to preventing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and long-term complications.

Gestational Diabetes & Women’s Health the unique challenges, clinical implications, and long-term health impacts of diabetes that arise during pregnancy. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common metabolic complications of pregnancy, characterized by glucose intolerance that is first recognized during gestation. Affecting up to 10%–15% of pregnancies globally, GDM poses significant risks not only to maternal health but also to fetal development and long-term outcomes for both mother and child. GDM is primarily caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy that increase insulin resistance, particularly in the second and third trimesters. In women with predisposing factors such as obesity, advanced maternal age, family history of diabetes, or certain ethnic backgrounds—these hormonal shifts may overwhelm pancreatic beta-cell function, resulting in hyperglycemia. If left unmanaged, GDM can lead to serious complications such as preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn. The use of insulin therapy and oral hypoglycemic agents such as metformin will also be reviewed, with an emphasis on safety, efficacy, and maternal-fetal outcomes. Beyond pregnancy, GDM significantly increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and child. Children born to mothers with GDM are more likely to develop obesity, metabolic syndrome, and glucose intolerance as they age.

Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome & Insulin Resistance will   in-depth examination of three interrelated conditions that form the foundation of the global Type 2 diabetes epidemic. Obesity is not only a major risk factor for diabetes but also a driving force behind the development of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome—both of which play critical roles in disease progression and the emergence of cardiovascular and other complications. Obesity, particularly visceral or central obesity, is characterized by an excess accumulation of adipose tissue that disrupts normal metabolic processes. Adipose tissue is not merely a storage depot for fat but an active endocrine organ that secretes hormones, cytokines, and inflammatory mediators that contribute to systemic inflammation, lipid abnormalities, and glucose intolerance. This chronic low-grade inflammation leads to insulin resistance, a state in which the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. Over time, the pancreas compensates by producing more insulin, eventually leading to beta-cell exhaustion and the onset of Type 2 diabetes.Metabolic Syndrome is a cluster of conditions that include abdominal obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia (elevated triglycerides and reduced HDL cholesterol), elevated fasting glucose, and insulin resistance. When these factors co-exist, they dramatically increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Special focus will be given to the role of the gut microbiome and genetic predisposition in mediating susceptibility to insulin resistance.

Diabetic Complications: Neuropathy, Nephropathy & Retinopathy will provide a comprehensive exploration of the three most common and serious long-term complications associated with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. As the global burden of diabetes continues to rise, so does the prevalence of these debilitating conditions, which significantly impact quality of life and increase morbidity and mortality among diabetic patients. Chronic hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation are key contributors to the development of microvascular complications that affect the nervous system, kidneys, and eyes. Diabetic neuropathy is a progressive nerve disorder that affects nearly half of all people with diabetes over time. It manifests in several forms, with peripheral neuropathy being the most common causing numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and pain, primarily in the hands and feet. Autonomic neuropathy can also occur, affecting vital bodily functions including digestion, bladder control, and heart rate. Diabetic nephropathy, also known as diabetic kidney disease (DKD), is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide. It progresses silently, with microalbuminuria often being the first clinical indicator. Over time, it leads to proteinuria, reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR), hypertension, and eventually kidney failure.

Precision Medicine & Pharmacogenomics in Diabetes” will explore how advances in genomics, molecular biology, and data science are transforming the traditional one-size-fits-all approach into highly individualized strategies for diabetes diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Precision medicine an emerging model of tailored healthcare takes into account genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that influence disease progression and drug response. In the context of diabetes, where the disease manifests in highly heterogeneous ways, such personalized approaches offer the potential for more effective and targeted interventions, improved therapeutic outcomes, and reduced risk of complications.Pharmacogenomics, a key pillar of precision medicine, studies how genetic variations affect an individual’s response to drugs. In diabetes care, this knowledge is being leveraged to guide medication selection, dosing, and treatment duration based on a patient’s unique genetic profile. . For example, genetic polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing enzymes (such as CYP2C9 or CYP2C8), drug transporters, and drug targets can significantly influence the efficacy and safety of commonly used diabetes medications such as sulfonylureas, metformin, thiazolidinediones, and DPP-4 inhibitors.

Lifestyle Interventions: Diet, Exercise & Behavioral Therapy will explore the foundational role of non-pharmacological strategies in the prevention and management of diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes. While advancements in medications and technologies continue to evolve, lifestyle modification remains the cornerstone of effective diabetes care. Physical activity is equally critical in improving insulin sensitivity, promoting weight management, and enhancing cardiovascular health. The session will explore various forms of exercise including aerobic activity, resistance training, flexibility, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and how each contributes uniquely to diabetes outcomes. Participants will learn how to prescribe appropriate and safe exercise routines for individuals at different fitness levels, ages, and comorbidity profiles. Emphasis will be placed on overcoming barriers to physical activity, such as motivational issues, physical limitations, and lack of access to resources. Emerging research on wearable fitness trackers and mobile apps that monitor and encourage physical activity will also be reviewed. In addition to diet and exercise, behavioral therapy plays a vital role in achieving and maintaining lifestyle changes.The role of emotional well-being, stress management, and sleep hygiene will also be examined, recognizing their strong associations with glycemic control and overall health outcomes. The integration of digital health tools such as telecoaching, mobile health platforms, and virtual support groups will be discussed as innovative methods to support behavior change and improve adherence.

Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases” will provide an in-depth examination of the strong and complex interrelationship between diabetes and cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among individuals with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, making it one of the most significant and life-threatening complications of the condition. Diabetes contributes to the development and progression of a wide spectrum of cardiovascular conditions, including coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, stroke, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), and hypertension. Chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction all play a pivotal role in accelerating atherosclerosis and impairing vascular integrity. Clinical trials have shown that these therapies not only improve glycemic control but also significantly reduce the risk of heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke.The role of multidisciplinary care teams including endocrinologists, cardiologists, primary care physicians, and diabetes educators will be emphasized to ensure that cardiovascular prevention and treatment are integrated seamlessly into diabetes care. cardiovascular outcomes among diabetic populations, particularly in low-resource settings and among ethnic minorities. It will highlight the need for tailored strategies, patient education, and community engagement to close these gaps in care. cardiovascular outcomes trials (CVOTs) and offer guidance on incorporating these agents into treatment plans for patients with or at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Herbal, Alternative & Integrative Therapies in Diabetes will the growing interest and clinical potential of non-conventional therapies in the prevention and management of diabetes. As the global burden of diabetes continues to rise, many patients are turning to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches including herbal remedies, nutritional supplements, mind-body practices, and traditional medical systems as adjuncts to standard medical care. Herbal medicine, one of the most widely used forms of alternative therapy, includes a diverse range of plant-derived substances with potential glucose-lowering effects. Botanicals such as bitter melon (Momordica charantia), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia), gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre), and berberine have demonstrated promising antihyperglycemic properties in various in vitro, animal, and human studies. These compounds may offer benefits such as improved glucose metabolism, antioxidant protection, and reduced neuropathic symptoms. Attendees will learn about effective dosing, interactions with conventional medications, potential side effects, and how to guide patients in safe and evidence-informed use of supplements. These practices have been shown to support stress reduction, improve insulin sensitivity, enhance quality of life, and promote long-term adherence to healthy behaviors. 

Diabetes in Aging Populations will focus on the growing clinical and public health challenges of managing diabetes in older adults—a rapidly expanding demographic due to increasing life expectancy and global aging trends. As the number of people aged 60 and above continues to rise, so does the prevalence of both Type 2 diabetes and diabetes-related complications within this group. Diabetes in older adults presents unique challenges due to age-related changes in metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and organ function. In many cases, these changes are compounded by polypharmacy, multiple comorbidities (such as cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, or chronic kidney disease), and geriatric syndromes like frailty, depression, and sarcopenia. In terms of treatment strategies, this session will examine how to safely balance the benefits and risks of glucose-lowering therapies in older patients. Special attention will be given to avoiding hypoglycemia a major concern in the elderly that can lead to falls, hospitalization, and even mortality. The use of safer medications such as DPP-4 inhibitors, low-dose SGLT2 inhibitors, and GLP-1 receptor agonists will be reviewed, along with the cautious application of insulin therapy in select cases. nutrition, physical activity, and social support in managing diabetes in aging individuals. Maintaining muscle mass, preventing malnutrition, and promoting mobility are essential for preserving independence and reducing the risk of disability. 

Immunotherapy and Autoimmunity in Type 1 Diabetes will delve into the fundamental immunological mechanisms that drive the onset and progression of Type 1 diabetes (T1D), and explore how innovative immunotherapeutic strategies are being developed to prevent, delay, or halt the disease. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly targets and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This immune-mediated attack typically begins months or years before clinical diagnosis and leads to lifelong insulin dependence. Understanding and targeting the autoimmune basis of T1D has become a key focus of research, as it holds the promise of not only managing symptoms but also addressing the root cause of the disease. By identifying the early stages of autoimmunity such as the presence of islet autoantibodies clinicians are now able to detect individuals at risk even before the onset of hyperglycemia, creating new windows for early intervention. In addition to monoclonal antibodies, the session will cover a wide range of immunomodulatory approaches, including antigen-specific immunotherapy, T-cell vaccines, regulatory T-cell (Treg) therapies, and cytokine inhibitors. Research on tolerance-inducing strategies which aim to retrain the immune system to tolerate beta-cell antigens without compromising overall immune function will also be discussed. 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Digital Health in Diabetes  the transformative role of technology in revolutionizing the way diabetes is diagnosed, monitored, and managed. As the global prevalence of diabetes continues to rise, traditional care models are being challenged by the complexity of patient needs, comorbidities, and healthcare access disparities. In response, digital health tools and AI-driven solutions are emerging as powerful forces, capable of personalizing care, improving outcomes, and making diabetes management more proactive, data-driven, and patient-centered. Artificial Intelligence, encompassing machine learning (ML), deep learning, and predictive analytics, is being applied across multiple dimensions of diabetes care. AI algorithms are now capable of analyzing vast amounts of patient data—including blood glucose levels, insulin doses, diet, physical activity, sleep patterns, and even behavioral factors—to provide real-time insights, treatment recommendations, and early warnings for hypo- or hyperglycemic episodes. These intelligent systems not only assist patients in day-to-day decisions but also support healthcare providers in making evidence-based clinical decisions, reducing errors, and enhancing care efficiency. 

Diabetes and Mental Health will explore the critical and often under-recognized connection between diabetes and psychological well-being. Living with diabetes whether Type 1 or Type 2—requires constant attention to blood glucose levels, diet, medications, exercise, and lifestyle, placing a substantial burden on individuals. This ongoing responsibility can contribute to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and a decreased quality of life. Research increasingly shows that mental health plays a crucial role in diabetes management, outcomes, and overall health, making it an essential aspect of holistic care. This session will provide a comprehensive look into how psychological conditions interact with diabetes and how integrated care models can better support individuals in managing both. Diabetes distress—a term used to describe the unique emotional burdens and worries related to living with diabetes is a common experience among patients. Unlike clinical depression, diabetes distress is specifically related to feelings of burnout, guilt, fear of complications, and frustration over disease management. Left unaddressed, it can lead to poor self-care, reduced medication adherence, and deteriorating glycemic control. This session will examine the prevalence of diabetes distress, its clinical implications, and how it can be effectively assessed using tools such as the Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS).

Clinical Trials and Drug Development in Diabetes will provide a comprehensive exploration of the scientific, regulatory, and clinical processes that drive the discovery and advancement of new therapies for diabetes care. With the global prevalence of diabetes—both Type 1 and Type 2 reaching epidemic proportions, the demand for innovative, effective, and safer treatments has never been greater. Clinical trials are the foundation of evidence-based medicine and are essential in evaluating the safety, efficacy, and long-term impact of new pharmacologic agents. Emphasis will be placed on regulatory requirements, ethical considerations, and trial design methodologies, including adaptive designs, real-world evidence models, and patient-reported outcomes. Attendees will gain insight into the critical endpoints commonly used in diabetes trials, such as HbA1c reduction, time-in-range, weight loss, cardiovascular and renal outcomes, and hypoglycemia incidence.A central focus of this session will be the development and evaluation of novel drug classes and combination therapies. Recent breakthroughs in diabetes pharmacotherapy include GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, and dual or triple agonists targeting multiple metabolic pathways. These agents not only improve glycemic control but also offer additional benefits such as cardiovascular protection, weight management, and renal health. In addition, updates will be shared on investigational therapies including GIP/GLP-1 dual agonists, oral insulin formulations, non-peptide small molecules, and gene and cell-based therapies.

Global Epidemiology and Public Health Challenges in Diabetes” will explore the expanding burden of diabetes from a global perspective, highlighting current trends, disparities, and the systemic obstacles that hinder prevention, diagnosis, and effective management of the disease worldwide. Diabetes has emerged as one of the most significant public health concerns of the 21st century, affecting over 530 million people globally, with numbers expected to exceed 640 million by 2030. This dramatic rise is attributed to complex interactions between genetic susceptibility, aging populations, urbanization, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and socio-economic factors. Particular attention will be given to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), which are experiencing the most rapid increases in diabetes rates but often lack the healthcare infrastructure and resources needed for early detection and long-term care. Urbanization, lifestyle transitions, and limited public awareness in these settings exacerbate the burden of undiagnosed and poorly managed diabetes, leading to preventable complications and premature mortality. ype 2 diabetes among younger populations, including children and adolescents, fueled by rising obesity rates and sedentary behaviors. In addition, the increasing global rates of gestational diabetes, prediabetes, and diabetes-related complications such as cardiovascular disease, renal failure, and amputations, present serious challenges for healthcare systems already under strain.

Healthcare Policy, Economics & Access to Diabetes Care” will explore the critical intersection between public health policy, healthcare financing, and equitable access to diabetes prevention and management services across global and regional healthcare systems. As the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise worldwide—projected to affect over 640 million people by 2030—the economic, social, and policy implications of the disease are becoming increasingly urgent. Diabetes is not only a major medical condition but also a significant economic burden, both at the individual and societal levels. The global cost of diabetes—including direct medical expenses and indirect costs such as lost productivity, disability, and premature mortality—is estimated to exceed $850 billion annually. These economic pressures are especially challenging for low- and middle-income countries, where healthcare infrastructure is often under-resourced, and out-of-pocket spending dominates access to medications, diagnostics, and chronic care services. A major focus will be placed on healthcare policy frameworks that support comprehensive diabetes prevention and management programs. These include national diabetes action plans, disease registries, essential medicine lists, and policies that integrate diabetes care into broader non-communicable disease (NCD) strategies. The importance of multisectoral collaboration—including urban planning, food regulation, education, and economic development—will also be emphasized as key to creating healthier environments and reducing diabetes risk factors at the population level.

Diabetes Education, Self-Management & Patient Advocacy will emphasize the vital role of patient empowerment, knowledge, and community engagement in achieving long-term success in diabetes care. While advances in medicine and technology have significantly improved diabetes treatment, the daily management of the condition still largely depends on the individual. Effective self-care requires a thorough understanding of the disease, ongoing education, strong motivation, and access to resources that support informed decision-making. At the core of diabetes education is the recognition that informed patients are better equipped to manage their condition. Structured diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) programs have consistently shown to improve glycemic control, enhance treatment adherence, reduce complications, and improve overall quality of life. Techniques such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and peer mentoring are increasingly being incorporated into patient education programs to help individuals overcome barriers, sustain behavior change, and cope with the psychological stressors of living with a chronic disease. Advancements in digital health tools—including mobile apps, telehealth platforms, virtual coaching, and remote monitoring—have created new opportunities to deliver education and self-management support outside of traditional clinical settings.