New competition to improve care for young diabetics

Britons between the ages of 16 and 25 are being invited to design and test online and mobile phone apps that can help improve diabetes self-management for young people with the condition.
Launched as part of a new research project funded by charity group Diabetes UK, the Diabetes App Challenge aims to create software that will help young diabetics interact more effectively with healthcare professionals during their care appointments, allowing them to “focus on the things they want to discuss that are important to them”.
“Improving glucose control in teenagers is vital in reducing their risk of diabetes-related complications in later life,” Dr Iain Framen, Director of Research at Diabetes UK, said.
“At this age, in particular, young people begin to take on more responsibility in managing their own condition. This is why at Diabetes UK we are constantly looking for ways in which we can engage with people of this age group to best support them to look after themselves.”
“We are pleased to support this novel research project that will help to give young people with diabetes a say in their own care. We hope that the apps produced through the competition enable them to set the agenda and get the most out of their care appointments.”
Shortlisted apps will be made available online for testing at healthcare appointments, and the designers of these apps will receive a payment every time their software is downloaded.
For more information on the competitio, including how to apply, visit diabetesappchallenge.org.uk.