The BR1DGE Podcast - Episode 6: What Do People with T1D Think About Screening for T1D

Learning Objectives

• Understand the rationale and potential benefits of early screening for T1D 
• Identify key considerations for T1D screening programs, such as target populations, communication strategies, and follow-up care  
• Recognize the personal and psychosocial impact of T1D screening, both for individuals living with T1D and their families  

Summary

Professor Jurgen Vercauteren, a researcher living with T1D, discusses EDENT1FI, a large-scale European project aiming to screen 200,000 children, testing various models for integrating screening into healthcare. Vercauteren highlights that early detection, even in asymptomatic children, allows for education and monitoring, significantly reducing the disease burden of DKA at diagnosis. He stresses the importance of proper communication to address parental anxiety and overcome skepticism. He notes that while pathophysiology understanding is crucial, successful management and widespread implementation require collaboration among healthcare professionals, patient advocacy groups, industry, and policymakers to make screening an evidence-based part of healthcare. 

MAT-GLB-2500708-1.0 – 09/2025