Lilly Launches Diabetes Training Program for Mexican Doctors

Lilly launched National Resilience Against Diabetes, a free program to train 50,000 Mexican doctors on Type 2 Diabetes. This initiative aims to educate healthcare providers on updated disease management strategies, reducing diabetes complications and mortality through comprehensive education and certification opportunities.

Type 2 Diabetes has become a critical public health crisis in Mexico, affecting over 14.6 million people, according to the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT). This prevalence has positioned Mexico among the OECD nations with the highest diabetes rates. In response, Lilly has collaborated with the Mexican Society of Nutrition and Endocrinology to provide comprehensive training on the latest advances in diabetes management.

Contributing significantly to the nation's diabetes challenge is the high intake of soft drinks. An article published by MBN highlights that Mexico ranks sixth globally in soda consumption. Excessive consumption of sugary beverages is directly linked to the development of Type 2 Diabetes, as these drinks cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance over time. Additionally, obesity is a major risk factor for Type 2 Diabetes. Medical News Today reports that obese individuals are approximately 10 times more likely to develop the condition than those with moderate body weight.

“Mexico ranks as the fifth-most obese country in the world and, while this is not a new issue, the prevalence of this disease is increasing at an alarming rate,” said Carlo Andrés Briones, Medical Director, Quest Diagnostics to MBN.

Emphasizing this link, Leonardo Mancillas, Vice President, Mexican Society of Nutrition and Endocrinology, stresses the need for a multidisciplinary approach: "80% of Type 2 Diabetes patients in Mexico are overweight or obese, underscoring the importance of comprehensive care."

"Lilly is committed to re-educating the medical community on Type 2 Diabetes, focusing on new disease origins, underlying causes, and effective management strategies," says Claudio Fiorentini, Medical Director of Diabetes and Obesity, Lilly. The program ensures 24/7 access to updated information and offers certification points to participating doctors. "It is crucial that healthcare providers and patients have access to accurate information and innovative treatments to effectively manage this disease."

Overall, the program addresses a significant need. A survey by the International Diabetes Federation revealed that 56% of individuals with diabetes in Mexico are diagnosed only after complications arise, underscoring the need for improved education and communication in diabetes management.