Study to examine ways of improving diabetes care for younger adults
pharmafile | June 16, 2026 | News story | | diabetes
Researchers at Northumbria University are leading a £1.3m study aimed at helping GP practices improve care for young adults living with type 2 diabetes.
Funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the project will involve all 1,263 Primary Care Networks in England and will evaluate approaches designed to help healthcare professionals (HCPs) deliver better support for younger patients.
Around 65,000 adults aged 18 to 39 in England currently have blood glucose levels above recommended targets, placing them at increased risk of complications including cardiovascular disease and premature death.
Young adults with type 2 diabetes often face distinct challenges compared with older patients, including balancing disease management with work and family commitments and dealing with stigma associated with diagnosis at a younger age.
The study will test whether additional support can help GP practices make better use of data from the National Diabetes Audit. Participating practices will receive support through webinars or online guidance and resources.
Researchers will assess whether these approaches improve blood glucose control and increase delivery of recommended diabetes care.
Samantha Dottin, who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in her 30s, stated that younger adults often faced different challenges following diagnosis and could benefit from more tailored support.
Dr Michael Sykes (pictured), who is leading the research, said the study would examine whether improvements in staff knowledge and service organisation could translate into better patient outcomes.
The project will run until June 2027 and includes partners from the NHS, leading diabetes organisations and several academic institutions.
Adrian Bartlett, Deputy Director for Diabetes, Respiratory, Tobacco, Strategy in NHS England, said: “We welcome this important work, which will shape how the NHS supports the delivery of high-quality care for young adults living with Type 2 Diabetes.”
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