Monogenic Diabetes
Improving diagnosis and treatment of monogenic diabetes
An estimated 12,000 people in England have monogenic diabetes.
These rare forms of diabetes, caused by a mutation in a single gene, can often be misdiagnosed as type 1 diabetes. If this happens, patients are treated with insulin injections, which are often not the best treatment for monogenic diabetes.
Why is it important to diagnose monogenic diabetes?
Early diagnosis will ensure that patients receive the most appropriate treatment and reduce the risk of complications.
Most patients newly diagnosed with monogenic diabetes will be able to manage their glucose levels by taking tablets or by diet. Monogenic diabetes runs in families and testing can identify affected family members and children, who have inherited the gene variant and will go on to develop monogenic diabetes.
How will this project make a difference?
This project aims to improve the diagnosis of monogenic diabetes to reduce the number of patients who are misdiagnosed.
Accurate diagnosis can lead to more appropriate treatment and better outcomes for patients, often eliminating the need for insulin. The project is being led nationally by NHS South West Genomic Medicine Service Alliance (GMSA).
What are we doing in the North East and Yorkshire?
The NHS North East and Yorkshire GMSA are working with healthcare professionals across the region to provide training for NHS staff to help them recognise when testing for monogenic diabetes is appropriate and ensure that testing is available to everyone who might benefit from it.
How can I learn more?
Contact us to learn more.
Project contact
Dr. Michael Wright, NEY GMSA Clinical Director