Conference
On June 11th 2025, The Diabetic Debrief hosted Insight on Diabetes, a virtual conference exploring breakthroughs in diabetes research, advocacy, and the healthcare system. The featured presenters were Diabetes Nurse and Educator Gloria Yee and Endocrinologist and Researcher Dr. Rebecca Aguirre, who shared their expertise on advancing equitable care, patient education, and innovation in diabetes management.
Agenda
Gloria Yee — Diabetes Nurse and Educator
With over 30 years of experience working directly with patients, Gloria Yee shared her perspective on the human side of diabetes. She discussed how factors like mental health, transportation, and access to healthy food profoundly shape diabetes care. Gloria also emphasized the importance of language access—highlighting her work supporting Cantonese- and Spanish-speaking patients—and how community-based initiatives in San Francisco improve outcomes for people with chronic illnesses.
Dr. Rebecca Aguirre — Endocrinologist and Diabetes Researcher
Dr. Pugliese presented on biases in clinical research for Type 1 diabetes, revealing how many studies unintentionally overrepresent white participants while excluding patients of color. She explained how these gaps can limit the effectiveness of medical treatments and emphasized the urgent need for inclusive research that reflects the full diversity of the diabetes community.
Dr. Aguirre's presentation on equitable clinical research, Insight on Diabetes Conference 2025
Insights and Next Steps
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Diabetes care goes beyond medicine. Social factors—mental health, transportation, and food access—play critical roles in patient well-being.
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Language access matters. Translation and culturally competent communication can dramatically improve outcomes for non-English-speaking patients.
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Equity in research (and beyond) is essential. Diversifying clinical trials ensures that treatments are safe and effective for everyone living with diabetes. Equity permeates all parts of diabetes care.
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Community involvement drives progress. Grassroots efforts and local support networks can fill gaps that healthcare systems often overlook.