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The Type 1 Diabetes National Screening Pilot funded by JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) and led by researchers at the University of Sydney, aims to find the best way to screen children for pre-symptomatic type 1 diabetes.
Early detection can virtually eliminate the risk of life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis and improve long-term health outcomes.
It is the overarching vision of the pilot that all children will be routinely screened for type 1 diabetes as part of a new national screening program.
The Pilot was rolled out across Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The Royal Hospital for Women and St George Hospital in late 2022 and has now entered the follow-up phase. Over 1,900 newborns were screened by a free, simple heel prick test to determine their genetic risk for developing type 1 diabetes in childhood.
Families are now receiving their results and undergoing follow-up monitoring, if required.
Reassuringly, most children (90%) will have a low chance of developing type 1 diabetes in childhood.
For the 10% that have a genetically increased chance, free, annual follow-up testing is being offered by the Pilot until age 5 years.
A finger prick dried bloodspot can detect the development of type 1 diabetes autoantibodies long before symptoms develop. Families may wish to discuss their results with their GP or may require assistance with collecting their child’s finger prick bloodspot (reimbursement provided for sample collection).
As a trusted GP, your reassurance and support of the screening pilot is incredibly valuable to families throughout their journey.
More information for health professionals can be found in this fact sheet and on the Pilot’s website. Alternatively, you can call the Pilot helpline (1800 505 909) and speak with a Credentialled Diabetes Educator, Genetic Counsellor and Researchers, or email info@KidsDiabetesScreen.com.au
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