Grant: Project Grant

Cancer is becoming the major cause of hospitalization and death among people with diabetes. Given that they may be at a higher risk of developing cancer, there are several unanswered questions related to the importance and frequency of cancer screening among people with diabetes. It is also unclear whether individuals with more poorly-controlled diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cancer and what are the best medications that should be used to manage diabetes in people with cancer. We also don't know whether mothers with diabetes during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing cancer in the long-term. Our proposed DIabeteS and Cancer OUtcomes in a Real-world SEtting (DISCOURSE) Study is designed to provide answers to these questions. The study will be based on data from the Ministry of Health, Alberta Health Services and from the Alberta's Tomorrow Project. Our study has the following aims: Study 1: To examine rates of screening for cancers in people with and without diabetes; Study 2: To examine whether patients with poorly controlled diabetes have a higher risk of cancer. We will also examine whether diet and lifestyle factors have an effect on diabetes and cancer risk. Study 3: To examine what drugs are being used to manage individuals with diabetes and cancer and what impact these drugs have on mortality and other outcomes; and Study 4: To examine whether mothers with diabetes in pregnancy are at a higher risk of cancer than those without diabetes. Our team consists of researchers and clinicians with expertise in diabetes and cancer research. We will be working very closely with representatives of the healthcare system and members of the public with diabetes in conducting this research study. Our findings will inform clinical guidelines and best practices for cancer screening, identifying high-risk populations, and optimal management of diabetes and cancer. See a video summary of the proposed project here: https://youtu.be/xDcKPUbflj4