Circa 2004
DIABETES:
MEDTRONIC SUPPORTS RESEARCH
Approximately 18.2 million Americans have diabetes, which continues to be the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) has identified the development of a closed-loop artificial pancreas as one of six top priorities in improving diabetes management over the next five years, and Medtronic Inc. expects to market the system within this timeframe. External and implantable versions of the artificial pancreas are currently in clinical trials in the United States and Europe.
An artificial pancreas incorporates an insulin pump, a sensor to continuously record blood sugar (glucose) data, and a computer-controlled algorithm to determine precise dosing amounts and timely delivery of insulin to the body. The goal of such a system is to help patients maintain tighter blood sugar control, and to simplify diabetes management by reducing the need for patient intervention.
JDRF is uniquely positioned to play a catalyst role in accelerating the development, scientific advancement, acceptance and reimbursement for novel therapies to help patients with diabetes. With the growing prevalence of diabetes worldwide, there is an increased need for automated technology to help patients improve their diabetes care. “We are encouraged by early feasibility study results and believe an automated system that essentially replaces the human pancreas will one day revolutionize the way we treat diabetes,” said Mohammed Saad, M.D., professor of medicine at the University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine.
The Medtronic Foundation has supported JDRF’s efforts by funding the Center for Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Access to improve the standards of care for people with diabetes. “As we continue to create advanced diabetes management systems that integrate insulin pumps with continuous glucose monitoring, the need to improve patient access to these important, life-improving technologies will increase,” stated Jeff McCaulley, vice president and general manager of Medtronic’s diabetes business. “As our top scientists continue to work closely with industry-leading physicians to perfect the artificial pancreas, we look forward to working with JDRF to create favorable access and reimbursement for patients and physicians.”
Products & Services
TOP DOG:
EUKANUBA SEARCHES FOR TOP ASSISTANCE DOG
Assistance dogs bring new meaning to the saying “A dog is a man’s best friend.” Now, Eukanuba— along with Mira and Assistance Dogs International—is working to ensure these dogs get the recognition they deserve by launching a contest that will recognize the Eukanuba Assistance Dog of the Year.
“All assistance dogs are winners, and this program is designed to shine the spotlight on each of these amazing dogs, while recognizing the best of the best,” said Kelly Vanasse of Iams. “The training, nutrition and loving care we give to assistance dogs is what we encourage all pet owners to give their extraordinary companions.”
One team consisting of a dog and owner will be selected for the top prize: a lifetime supply of Eukanuba and an all-expenses-paid trip to the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Tampa, Fla., January 2005. Two additional teams will receive a year’s supply of Eukanuba.
Products & Services
AIRPORT—DFW
ACCESSIBILITY GOES BEYOND ADA
DFW International Airport Board recognized members of its Accessibility Focus Group for their work in making the new International Terminal D and SkyLink Automated People Mover System fully accessible. The group’s mission was to provide guidance on accessibility issues; the implemented suggestions included private screen rooms at security checkpoints, audio messaging for SkyLink APM train cars, use of entry vestibules rather than revolving doors, improved toilet room features and floor pattern/texture changes at gate counters. “DFW has taken the opportunity to include elements into the construction program that are not required by law. They’re things that don’t cost anything, but will make a huge difference to the independence of the disability community,” said Kristi Thomas, CEO/president of Accessology.
Focus group members represented the mobility, sight, hearing and cognitive disorder disabilities communities. The focus group includes Kristi Thomas, Accessology; John D. Kemp, Half the Planet Foundation; Kent Waldrep, National Paralysis Foundation; David Jeppson, Texas Commission for the Blind; Randy Snow, NoXqs Inc.; Judy Scott, American Federation for the Blind; Peggy Cobb, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services; Elise Mitchell, Advocacy Inc.; Drew Dixon, The ARC of Dallas; Maureen McCloskey, Paralyzed Veterans of America; Yvette Fielder, American Airlines; Marianne Laslo, American Airlines; Sherry Jackson, American Airlines.
