Alpro Pharmacy raises T1DM awareness through workshop

In an effort to raise awareness about Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and provide comprehensive support to affected children, teenagers, parents, and families, Alpro Pharmacy partnered with Ascensia Diabetes Care, a global diabetes care company, to organize the impactful “Together as ONE” workshop. T1DM, an autoimmune disease with no cure, disrupts insulin production in the pancreas, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and potentially life-threatening conditions if left untreated.

The workshop aimed to address the issue of delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis, which often occurred due to the similarity of symptoms with common illnesses, particularly in children. Frequent urination, ongoing extreme thirst, weight loss, and vomiting were some of the symptoms frequently misattributed to other conditions, resulting in delayed treatment for T1DM.

Dr. Jeanne Wong Sze Lyn, a resident consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Endocrinologist, stressed the importance of early diagnosis during the workshop. She highlighted that timely diagnosis and appropriate care were crucial for children with T1DM to effectively manage their condition and avoid life-threatening complications.

“T1DM children face various challenges, such as potential discrimination and feelings of isolation from peers, as well as the fear of drawing attention while using an insulin pen, which may result in delayed intervention and jeopardize their health.” Dr. Wong said.

Sugo 365 team to support families

To address these challenges and provide comprehensive support to families, Alpro Pharmacy established the Sugo 365 team. This team of healthcare professionals aims to equip parents with in-depth knowledge about T1DM, enabling them to effectively identify and manage the condition while providing crucial emotional support to their children. Through Sugo 365, parents will receive guidance and develop the necessary skills to nurture and care for their children with T1DM.

Eunice Lau, a SEED Connections Clinic Psychologist, praised the “Together as ONE” workshop for providing a safe and supportive environment for Type 1 Diabetes patients to develop self-regulation skills.

“Caregiving for children with this condition can be difficult, so it is important for parents and family members to nurture their emotional and mental well- being to effectively supporting their loved ones.” Eunice said.

Creating a safe and supportive environment

In conjunction with the workshop, Alpro Pharmacy introduced the ONE Warrior Glucometer Bag, which will be provided to children with T1DM free of charge. Unlike the standard black glucometer bags commonly available, these specially designed vibrant blue and pink bags aim to instill a sense of courage and happiness during the injection process while addressing concerns related to discrimination.

Alpro Pharmacy firmly believes that with unwavering physical and emotional support from parents, along with adherence to appropriate dietary guidelines, children with T1DM can confidently administer insulin injections and lead fulfilling lives, just like their peers, throughout their T1DM journey.

The “Together as ONE” workshop and the initiatives undertaken by Alpro Pharmacy and Ascensia Diabetes Care serve as crucial steps in raising awareness about T1DM, promoting early diagnosis, and ensuring comprehensive support for children, teenagers, parents, and families affected by the condition. By equipping families with knowledge and empowering them to manage T1DM effectively, the aim is to improve the quality of life and well-being of those living with this autoimmune disease.