The Impact of Research

Professor David O’Neal is a clinical endocrinologist at St. Vincent’s Hospital and the lead researcher of the Diabetes Technology Research Group. His team works across the full research spectrum – from project development, right up to the testing and real-world implementation of devices – including for people living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes using insulin.

“I have had the privilege of watching the evolution of diabetes care over the last 20 to 25 years. These devices have made a tremendous difference not just to glucose control but also to the quality of life of people living with diabetes and diabetes-related complications.

When I first started in the field of diabetes in 1987, people were finger-pricking themselves and relying on paper strips to measure their glucose levels. Insulin was delivered by injection, and insulin pens had only just been introduced.

The options available at the time were far less sophisticated than what we have today. Advising people on insulin doses often felt like trying to read the tea leaves – we simply didn’t have the tools we needed.

Now, with Automated Insulin Delivery systems, we can use real-time information from glucose sensors to guide insulin pumps and deliver rapid-acting insulin under the skin. Whilst this is not a cure for diabetes, it can significantly reduce overnight worry and lessen the daily burden of managing the condition.

But there is still more work to be done. We are currently focusing on how insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring can be further integrated to support people living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes - particularly those who are also managing diabetes-related complications.

We aim to further reduce the mental, emotional, and physical challenges that people with diabetes and diabetes-related complications face and improve outcomes compared to traditional care methods.

We tremendously value our relationship with Diabetes Victoria. Our partnership over the years has funded research which has gone on to change the way in which the condition is managed for the better.”