They’re responsible for a major global break-through in treating diabetes – and now the Trust’s team behind pioneering research have been given a coveted award for their work.
The diabetes research team have helped overweight patients slim down several dress sizes in a matter of weeks by using an EndoBarrier device and medication.
As a result, their hard work was recognised by the leading Diabetes UK charity, which has awarded the team the Young Diabetologist & Endocrinologist Travel Award.
Results from the study revealed how using the device can significantly improve the care for patients who suffer from diabesity (diabetes and obesity).
As well as shedding the excess weight, data showed that diabetic patients could drastically reduce their blood sugar levels, whilst 40 per cent of those who took part, now no longer need insulin to manage their condition.
Dr Piya Sen Gupta, one of the clinical leads for this research, said: “I feel very proud on behalf of the team. This award shows a special recognition for the work that we are doing.
“We have received great feedback from our patients. More than 90 per cent of them would recommend their friends and family try this new treatment.”
Diabetes Consultant, Bob Ryder, who initiated the study and was the primary investigator, added: “This award is an amazing achievement for the team and it’s great to know that we are the only Trust in the UK that is offering NHS patients this new treatment.
“We are now working with the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust to look into the possibility of helping them provide the treatment to their patients as part of the Black Country Alliance partnership. We have also received interest from a number of other hospitals.
“We believe that this is a positive sign for patients who are struggling to manage both their weight and diabetes.
“We would like to thank the Trust’s senior management team and Sandwell and West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) for their forward thinking and support for this innovative study.”
Chair of NHS Sandwell and West Birmingham CCG, Prof Nick Harding OBE said: “We are delighted to see this service being offered at City Hospital. It’s good to see the promising results of EndoBarriers for obese people with type 2 diabetes, with participants in the study losing weight and enjoying better health. This is a great example of innovation being used to improve quality of life for our patients.”
Diabetes UK Director of Research, Dr Elizabeth Robertson, said: “People with diabetes face the risk of life changing and life limiting complications unless they are given the very best care and the support they need to manage their condition well.
“The results of this trial are promising, but long term, large scale studies are still needed to understand the true impact of EndoBarrier use on the management of Type 2 diabetes.”
An EndoBarrier is a two foot open ended, thin and flexible plastic tube – inserted non-surgically through the mouth (by endoscopy). The device lines the upper small intestine to prevent food digestion. It is simple to remove after a year and can be taken out earlier if necessary.
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