The Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela, announced that with an investment of €5 million, over 220 people will benefit from the insulin pump service. This is as the service will be offered to patients aged 18 and younger who have Type 1 Diabetes, as well as to patients who have pancreatic cancer and develop Type 3c Diabetes after related operations.
Minister Jo Etienne Abela explained how Type 1 Diabetes is a condition that often develops in childhood or adolescence where the pancreas no longer produces insulin due to an inflammatory reaction. He said that this condition requires lifelong management of the patient and requires frequent monitoring of blood sugar, regular daily insulin administration and careful lifestyle adjustments to avoid life-threatening complications.
The minister said that currently, in Malta we have around 220 individuals who are 18 years of age or younger and who have the condition of Type 1 diabetes. He reiterated how the launch of this service builds on the successful launch of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM). The insulin pump together with the CGM will stimulate the function of the pancreas, as the insulin pump will automatically administer the necessary dose of insulin, with minimal input from the patient.
The minister explained how each year, around 25 new cases are diagnosed in children and adolescents between the ages of two and 18. Apart from this service through which these pumps will be supplied, a dedicated Clinic will also be opened offering comprehensive and multidisciplinary care.
“This initiative marks a significant advancement in diabetes care and highlights the Government’s commitment to providing innovative care solutions, which improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The Government is committed to continuing to invest in further advances in diabetes prevention, screening and care. The patient-centred approach aims to improve overall well-being,” concluded the minister.
