Helping people gain better

Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology was excited about one the world’s largest endocrinology conferences being in Austin this year. The Annual Scientific & Clinical Congress of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists was held in Downtown Austin between May 3^rd and 7^th. This is a world-renowned meeting which highlights the latest technological and medical advances in endocrinology. The program included expert speakers covering the latest developments and workshops presenting cutting-edge research to practitioners from around the world.

The most recent developments in diabetes treatment received extensive coverage at the conference. Dr. Thomas Blevins from Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology presented our clinic’s early experience with the new closed-loop insulin pump system in patients with type 1 diabetes.

In other sessions, attendees learned about recent developments in diabetes care. A special workshop reviewed data from recent studies evaluating the impact of diabetes medications on heart health.

One of the messages was that good sugar level control can have a significant impact on heart health. A study published in Diabetologia, showed that about 2.5% of patients with type 2 diabetes had known heart failure. Further detailed evaluation showed that up to 27.7% of patients had early signs or findings of heart failure. Importantly, by using medications that are known to reduce the risk of heart disease in patients with diabetes we can prevent the development and progression of these early stages of heart problems.

The special session also touched on different diabetes medications and their effects on heart function. The EMPA-REG outcome study which showed a significant reduction in heart disease and stroke-related deaths with the use of empagliflozin was reviewed. Another agent, liraglutide also reduced cardiovascular deaths, and the study that demonstrated this finding was the LEADER study.

The meeting was a major success overall, and it was a great opportunity for Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology providers to show off their city to colleagues from around the world!