The Study

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The initial question for this study can be summarized as: "How did I avoid common health issues that are closely linked to juvenile diabetes, while many others weren't so lucky?". This study was designed to find some possible answers in depth.

In this part of the three phase study, we are searching for Canadians with a history of longstanding type 1 diabetes for 50 years or longer. Through a mail-based  survey, we have succeeded to establish a baseline longitudinal registry of close to 500 participants so far. Based on some results of the survey we are able to look into possible factors and relationships that contribute to varying degrees of retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy and cardiovascular disease resistance in this cohort. In the already completed second and upcoming third phase of this study, we are aiming to further look into these factors in a smaller portion of our cohort through clinical study visits.  

This comprehensive survey is comprised of questions about you, your lifestyle, and how you have managed your diabetes over the years. Your diabetes history, previous health conditions and current comorbidities, family history, medications, insulin types and dosage, diet and exercise, your support system, as well as recent blood work and eye exam results are all invaluable markers for us to try and find patterns and relationships in relatively complication-free type 1 diabetes. 

Participating in the Diabetes Longevity Study is easy and does not require much more than your time and willingness to share your experience with us. You are eligible to partake if you have had type 1 diabetes for 50 years or longer, with or without the presence of health complications related to diabetes mellitus,  and are currently living in Canada as a permanent resident or citizen. 

Once enrolled, a questionnaire package will be mailed to you, which you can complete in the comfort of your own home. A  prepaid and self-addressed return envelope is included for your convenience. 

We also offer the option of a scheduled phone survey (ca. 2 hrs) for participants who require assistance (i.e. due to visual impairment a.o.)

If you, or someone you know, are interested to learn more or take part in this study, you can sign up here, or contact us toll free at 1-855-808-0150. Your email inquires are welcome at longevity.MSH@sinaihealthsystem.ca.

We would like to extend our gratitude to all our participants who took part in our study and generously donated their time and bio specimens (phase II).

None of this would be possible without your enthusiasm.