Towards a Cure

Association-supported researchers are working to enhance our understanding of diabetes and its prevention, treatment and management.

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Dr. Alice Cheng - Toronto, ON

Chair, 2013 Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee, Canadian Diabetes Association

Dr. Alice Cheng has been involved as a professional volunteer with the Canadian Diabetes Association for several years. She works as an endocrinologist both at St. Michael’s Hospital and Credit Valley Hospital. She’s been with St. Michael’s since 2003 and Credit Valley since 2005.

“Diabetes is just as serious as other chronic diseases because a patient has to live with it every day and the complications can change a person’s quality and quantity of life. It has the potential to take over one’s life if one lets it,” says Dr. Cheng. “It is, however, a manageable chronic disease. The challenge is to learn to live with diabetes and not have diabetes control you. It is rewarding for me when I’ve helped a patient take control of their diabetes through proper self-management.”

Dr. Cheng supports the Association’s approach to providing resources to high-risk populations, including the Greater Toronto Area’s Chinese Chapter, which caters to the community through targeted events, support groups and information sessions.

“There are many resources available from the Canadian Diabetes Association both for people living with diabetes and healthcare professionals. I can pull out the Association’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Diabetes in Canada when I have a patient and it adds credibility to any recommendations provided.”

Dr. Cheng also acknowledges Banting and Best and the important role they played in inspiring her career choice.

“There is a sense of pride and history given that insulin is one of the greatest medical discoveries. And it is great to know that the Canadian Diabetes Association is based on this heritage.”