The Diabetes Australia Research Trust (DART) has announced funding of approximately $2 million for 27 new projects for 2010. DART supports and develops the field of diabetes research in Australia. There were 257 applications received, a 14 per cent increase over last year and Diabetes Australia Acting CEO, Professor Greg Johnson said there were many worthy research projects which could not be funded and he hoped more research funding could be secured.
‘The quality of applications we received for the 2010 round was extremely high, which reassures us that Australian researchers are leading the world in trying to find a cure for diabetes, better treatments for all types of diabetes, and better ways to prevent diabetes and its complications and improve the health and wellbeing of people with diabetes.’
A staggering 275 Australians develop diabetes each day - which is a very serious public health issue as the complications of heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, blindness and amputation can be debilitating and life threatening, and threaten the productivity of the Australian workforce.
‘The DART investment into research encourages rigour and innovation by diabetes researchers to explore projects that will make a difference in the lives of people with diabetes,’ said Professor Johnson ‘Part of this is developing a capable and engaged research culture and fostering new researchers in their chosen field.’
DART relies on the generosity and support of our member organisations and individual donors. But more can always be done, and Diabetes Australia recognises that working with researchers in hospitals and universities and in collaboration with leaders in the field is the best way to progress positive outcomes.