Technology Innovations for Diabetes

In today’s manufacturing world, we get excited when we discover new technology and innovations that transform our world. New technology can also radically transform our lives on a more personal level, and this is happening today with advances in research for treatment of Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Okuma America proudly supports the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), a non-profit organization whose mission it is to find a cure for T1D. More than 80 cents out of every dollar raised is used for research and development. Today that research is producing breakthroughs that are extremely promising in helping those who live with T1D and their families and caregivers.

“Turning Type One Into Type None”

For people with T1D, the process of managing the disease is relentless. It requires them to constantly balance insulin delivery against the amount of food eaten, the amount of exercise, and even stress in the workplace or school. Few people, regardless of age, can focus on this balancing act every moment of the day. But technology can. JDRF is funding the development of two important new technologies that bring us closer to a world without T1D.

• Encapsulation: Encapsulated cell therapy has the potential to virtually eliminate the relentless daily management burden for those living with T1D. With it there is no need for multiple daily insulin injections or pump therapy, no more constant blood testing and no more carb counting. People with T1D would just go about their daily lives for extended periods of time as if they didn’t even have the disease. With encapsulated cell therapy, new beta cells are created and wrapped in a permeable, protective barrier, which is implanted in the body. The new beta cells release insulin when needed, while the barrier protects them from being destroyed by an autoimmune attack. What this could mean is a future where a simple procedure eliminates the need for insulin for up to 24 months. Watch the video and learn more about Encapsulation.
• Artificial Pancreas: Artificial Pancreas (AP) systems will be the most revolutionary advance in diabetes care since the discovery of insulin. Like the body’s pancreas, AP systems will react to rising blood-glucose levels by combining monitoring technology with insulin pumps to provide the right amount of insulin at the right time. Not only will AP systems result in much tighter control, lowering the risk of health complications later in life, they will also reduce the constant worry about blood-sugar levels and what must be done to manage them. What this could mean is a future where tight glucose control is maintained automatically. Watch the video and learn more about the Artificial Pancreas.

Why We Walk

On April 5th, for the third consecutive year, Okuma America will support the JDRF’s fundraising efforts by participating in the Charlotte “Walk to Cure Diabetes.” We decided to partner with JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) for a variety of reasons. JDRF has a large presence in our community, with a local Charlotte chapter and an annual event where thousands of people gather to show their support. Additionally, we know that some of our own members and their families are personally dealing with diabetes. The disease likely touches the lives of many of our customers too. Lastly, we wanted to build a long-term relationship with a respected, effective organization and become a true partner. We’re proud to know that Okuma’s fundraising efforts for JDRF are contributing to innovations that dramatically improve people’s health and well-being.

Denise Wilson is Human Resources Manager, Okuma America Corporation.