Diabetes Canada celebrates induction of researchers that changed the future of diabetes
Diabetes Canada is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin with the induction of Drs. Frederick Banting, Charles Best, James Collip and John Macleod—the co-discoverers of insulin—into Canada’s Walk of Fame for their contributions to Science, Technology and Innovation in Canada.
“It was in his London, Ontario home where, after a sleepless night, Dr. Frederick Banting put to paper the idea that led to insulin's discovery a year later,” says Grant Maltman, Curator, Banting House National Historic Site of Canada, Diabetes Canada. “As stewards of Banting House, Diabetes Canada is thrilled to commemorate this important milestone in Canadian medical history with recognition of these four men on Canada’s Walk of Fame.”
One hundred years ago, four researchers made a discovery that changed the diagnosis of diabetes. From the day insulin was discovered for human use by Drs. Banting, Best—Diabetes Canada’s co-founder—along with Collip and Macleod, there was finally a treatment for an otherwise deadly disease. Dr. Best recognized the need for an organization to advocate for and support the growing number of Canadians with diabetes. In the late 1940’s, the Diabetic Association of Ontario was formed, which led to the formation of the Canada Diabetes Association in 1953 which later became Diabetes Canada.
Each bringing unique skills and through collaboration, Banting, Best, Collip and Macleod achieved one of the twentieth century’s greatest medical discoveries—a breakthrough that continues to improve the quality of life for millions of people with diabetes worldwide.
About Diabetes Canada
Diabetes Canada is the registered national charitable organization that is making the invisible epidemic of diabetes visible and urgent. Diabetes Canada partners with Canadians to End Diabetes through:
- Resources for health care professionals on best practices to care for people with diabetes;
- Advocacy to governments, schools and workplaces; and
- Funding world-leading Canadian research to improve treatments and find a cure.
For more information, visit diabetes.ca or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).
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