Eighty-five per cent of Canadians agree that the federal government should be an equal partner in discussions on the future of healthcare in Canada, according to a poll released on January 12 by the Canadian Diabetes Association, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society.

This clear message supports the three charities’ strong belief that the federal government must fully engage with the provinces and territories to develop an effective 2014 health accord, especially for those living with chronic disease.

A unusual double-sided painting by the pioneer of insulin is going home.

Banting House—a museum in London, Ontario, dedicated to Frederick Banting and proudly stewarded by the Canadian Diabetes Association—recently acquired the painting, which will join 14 other Banting works in the collection. “We are absolutely thrilled,” says Sue Taylor, regional director of the Canadian Diabetes Association.  “A museum is only as good as its collection. Now we have another piece to show London and the world.”

Alberta—Alberta Transportation announced changes today to the rules for medical reporting for drivers with diabetes. Drivers with well managed diabetes will no longer have to provide annual driver medical reports, pending the approval of their physician.

Newfoundland & Labrador—The government of Newfoundland & Labrador has released a comprehensive strategy to assist those living with or at risk for chronic disease. Improving Health Together: A Policy Framework for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management in Newfoundland and Labrador provides a long-term approach for addressing chronic disease in the province.

This strategy will help guide the provincial government to address the needs of people living with a chronic disease and assist them to lead a healthy life.

Scientists are offering new explanations for why heavy coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It’s believed that something in the beverage might block a substance called human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP), which has been implicated in causing type 2.  Studies show that people who drink four or more cups of coffee daily have a 50% lower risk of developing the disease.

Did Santa bring you a new wardrobe and now you need to make room in your closet?  Or perhaps you did not like some of your gifts and you are not sure what to do with them? 

Starting January 10 and running through to March 10, “Life’s a trip, you are the pilot” invites all Canadians to donate their gently used clothing, small household items and electronics and be entered in a national draw to win a Disney® family getaway.

Team Diabetes is best known for offering people a chance to walk or run in amazing, once-in-a-lifetime destinations such as Reykjavik and Cayman Islands. For over five years, though, Team Diabetes has been participating in some of the best events Canada has to offer.

From the Pacific to the Atlantic and points in between, we have much of the country covered! Whether you are an avid marathon runner, dedicated walker, recreational cyclist or experienced roadie, the Canadian walk/run and cycling events offer something for almost everyone. In return for raising funds and awareness, team members receive free event entry, a team technical shirt or cycling jersey, personalized fundraising webpage and more.

Get active and help the Canadian Diabetes Association lead the fight against diabetes by joining Team Diabetes today at teamdiabetes.ca! 

Beans, lentils and brown rice pack a whole grain and vegetable protein punch.