There is a gap between scientific knowledge and its application in policy and practice at the global level. In addition, much of the existing research originates in high-income countries and often cannot be transferred to other settings. To address these challenges, the 2021 World Health Assembly Resolution 74.4 calls on Member States to “strengthen the monitoring and evaluation of diabetes responses, through country-level surveillance and monitoring systems, including surveys, that are integrated into existing national health information systems and by identifying priority areas for diabetes research.” To achieve this goal, in 2023, WHO developed a priority diabetes research agenda in collaboration with the Universities of Geneva and Sydney and with financial support from the Geneva Science-Policy Interface. WHO wishes to formally launch this new diabetes research agenda by encouraging regional participation and has selected the Region of the Americas for this launch.
BACKGROUND
In 2021, WHO launched the Global Diabetes Compact (GDC) to ensure that all people with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable, quality treatment and care. The GDC also seeks to close priority research and policy gaps while stimulating innovation. PAHO’s new evidence-based initiative on “Better Care for NCDs: Accelerating Actions in Primary Health Care” includes normative guidance to improve the quality of care by delivering health services for NCDs, including diabetes.
OBJECTIVES
- Current knowledge regarding gaps in diabetes care in the Region of the Americas
- Current challenges faced by decision-makers to improve the quality of diabetes care
- Diabetes Research Priorities for the Region of the Americas
As a result of these workshops, other research/knowledge translation areas are expected to be identified for each thematic area. Additionally, a regional consultation will present the objectives, scope, and process of the new WHO initiative in implementing a global research agenda for NCDs.
OBJECTIVES OF THE LAUNCH OF THE GLOBAL DIABETES RESEARCH AGENDA
- Present the global diabetes research agenda in the Region of the Americas.
- Emphasize the need to improve the quality of diabetes care.
- Analyze implementation strategies to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, in the context of the PAHO Better Care for NCDs initiative.
- Promote research to improve the quality of diabetes care.
PARTICIPANTS
- Ministries of Health (focal points for noncommunicable diseases/diabetes; areas of information, epidemiological surveillance, planning, and evaluation).
- PAHO/NMH Staff in regional and national offices.
- Health professionals are involved in preventing and controlling noncommunicable diseases and their risk factors.
- Nongovernmental organizations related to diabetes.
- Academics involved in diabetes research.
AGENDA
