Insulin Pump Program
- Perth Children's Hospital Foundation
Insulin Pump Program
- Perth Children's Hospital Foundation
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune condition where the body destroys the cells that produce insulin. A person with T1D requires lifelong administration of insulin and the regulation of blood glucose.
Insulin administration for people with T1D is either by multiple daily injections (which can be traumatic on the child and family) or by using an insulin pump. An insulin pump is a small electronic device that constantly delivers a small amount of insulin into the body via a cannula that is situated under the skin.
Evidence suggests that an insulin pump is a more appropriate treatment for children and teenagers with T1D as it reduces the need for multiple daily insulin injections, is associated with better overall blood glucose control and fewer episodes of life-threatening hypoglycaemia (very low bloody glucose levels). It also is associated with quality of life improvements for both young people with T1D and their families.
The PCH Diabetes team currently cares for over 1,100 children with T1D of whom 50% currently use insulin pump therapy to manage their diabetes. This means that over 500 children are not using insulin pump therapy. Whilst some families may choose not to use pump therapy, there are many families unable to access insulin pumps as they cannot afford private health insurance.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we have been able to support the Insulin Pump Program at Perth Children’s Hospital, purchasing pumps for WA children living with T1D so they can live a more normal and happy life without multiple injections throughout the day.
“Funding from Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation has allowed us to investigate and bring new technologies, like insulin pumps to children living with Type 1 Diabetes. We have been able to speed up the journey from the science and research to make the biggest impact we can to our patients.”
“We are deeply grateful for the support we have received that helps us improve the lives of children and young people living with diabetes. We want to thank Foundation donors for the generosity that they continue to show to the healthcare of WA children, it truly is making a difference.” – Liz Davis, Head of Endocrinology and Diabetes at Perth Children’s Hospital.
With your support, we can purchase even more life-changing equipment and technology like insulin pumps to ensure WA’s sick children can get well and stay well.