Diabetes UK

The Diabetes UK is a voluntary organization in the United Kingdom that was founded in 1934. It is dedicated to helping and caring for individuals with diabetes and their family members, representing and campaigning for their interests, and funding research. There are different forms of diabetes, including diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus is a condition in which deficient production or secretion of antidiuretic hormone results in excessive thirst (polydipsia) and excessive excretion of urine (polyuria). Diabetes mellitus is characterized by impaired fat, protein, and carbohydrate metabolism due to deficient secretion of insulin. Diabetes UK has five regional offices across the United Kingdom and a network of over 450 local groups and branches that are run by people living with diabetes. Diabetes UK offers a confidential service that provides information and support on all aspects of diabetes to affected individuals and family members. The service handles inquiries concerning such issues as employment, pregnancy, insurance, driving, diet, and many other areas. The Youth and Family Services department provides services and support to children and young people affected by diabetes, parents, teachers, career officers, and others. The department provides Youth Packs and School Packs; distributes a quarterly newsletter; offers a wide range of holiday events in the UK for affected children and adolescents from six to 18 years of age; holds regional days and annual family weekends; and conducts the Youth Diabetes Project to provide a strong voice for affected individuals from 18 to 30 years of age. In addition, the Tadpole Club is for all children with diabetes and their siblings and friends. Diabetes UK also typically funds approximately 140 to 160 ongoing research projects to investigate the causes, prevention, and treatment of diabetes; provides educational materials for affected individuals and family members; and maintains a web site on the Internet.