The German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) presented its research activities to the public  at two recently held events – the Diabetes Tour in Hannover and World Diabetes Day in Berlin. The focus was on the clinical trials of the DZD, which were presented in lectures and talks with individuals at the interactive DZD stand.

On November 10th the Diabetes Tour made a stop in the Eilenriede Hall in Hannover. The main event for World Diabetes Day (November 14th) was organized by DiabetesDE and took place the following Saturday at the International Congress Center in Berlin. These two public events each attracted more than 5000 visitors.

Also well attended were the presentations on “Diabetes Treatments – Individually Tailored” given by the diabetes experts Professor Karsten Müssig (in Hannover) and Dr. Bettina Nowotny (in Berlin) of the German Diabetes Center, a partner in the DZD. The interest in the trials in general and also in becoming trial participants was evident in the many subsequent questions. In Berlin the physician involved in the clinical trials, Dr. Margrit Kemper of the German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE) in Potsdam-Rehbrücke, also served as contact person for the trials at the stand.

In an active and playful manner, visitors at the stand could learn about diabetes in general and about the latest research. Whereas a puzzle and a pegging game were the big attraction for the younger visitors, other visitors chose to listen to the experiences of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes at audio stations and to watch short films. Curved mirrors to make people look skinny or fat were a fun but drastic way to illustrate the physical experience. The Diabetes Risk Test of the DIfE could be conducted electronically in just minutes at the DZD stand and delivered immediate results as well as tips for reducing personal risk.

Further Information