As part of National Diabetes Awareness Month, Sansum Diabetes Research Institute (SDRI) will host a free diabetes antibody screening clinic on World Diabetes Day, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. today, Friday, Nov. 14.
The event, at 5425 Hollister Ave., Ste. 230, Santa Barbara, is part of SDRI’s Screen and Treat Program, a pioneering initiative designed to identify individuals at risk for developing type 1 diabetes.
“Thanks to advances in research, type 1 diabetes can be detected years before symptoms appear, or insulin therapy is required,” SDRI said. “Through partnerships with Breakthrough T1D and Sanofi, SDRI provides education, resources, and support to help individuals understand the benefits of early screening.”
Detecting type 1 diabetes in its earliest stages is key, according to SDRI.
“Early detection is critical,” said Dr. Swati Elchuri, pediatric endocrinologist at SDRI. “Identifying type 1 diabetes in its earliest stages allows us to connect individuals with monitoring and care programs that improve long-term outcomes and significantly reduce the risk of serious complications.”
“World Diabetes Day is a powerful reminder of why diabetes research, education, and collaboration matter,” said Elizabeth Thompson, CEO of SDRI. “Our vision is a healthier future for everyone impacted by diabetes—and we’re proud to drive that progress right here in Santa Barbara.”
The Screen and Treat Program is open to individuals with a family history of type 1 diabetes or other autoimmune diseases, though anyone interested in learning about their risk is encouraged to participate.
The screening involves a simple blood test that checks diabetes-related autoantibodies—markers that can appear years before symptoms develop.
To learn more, visit sansum.org.