This marks a major milestone for type 1 diabetes research in Canada
The BETTER Registry, a nationwide research initiative dedicated to type 1 diabetes (T1D), has reached a significant milestone: over 5,000 individuals are now enrolled. This exceptional level of engagement strengthens the ability of researchers to better understand the realities and needs of people living with T1D or Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) across Canada.
Launched as part of the Type 1 BETTER project, the registry collects essential data directly from those affected, in order to support new research and improve care and support services. Thanks to the involvement of participants, healthcare professionals, and researchers, several studies have already been conducted on key topics such as technology use, hypoglycemia management, and the impact of socioeconomic factors, to name just a few.
“Reaching 5,000 participants is a major step forward for the BETTER project. It not only strengthens our research efforts, but also brings us closer to the lived experiences of those affected by T1D in Canada. This milestone gives us the tools we need to improve our support and develop better solutions for this community,” says Dr. Rémi Rabasa-Lhoret, co-founder and co-director of the project.
Patient partners of the BETTER Registry are also celebrating this achievement.
Darrin Davis, a patient partner from Winnipeg, Manitoba, shares: “Now, 5,000 people are contributing to our understanding of how T1D affects us and our loved ones. It’s incredible!”
Domitille Dervaux, from Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Quebec—a patient partner and parent of a child living with T1D—adds: “Joining the BETTER Registry means helping research move forward to improve the lives of people living with T1D and those close to them. Reaching 5,000 participants is a true collective success that allows patients, families, researchers, and professionals to work together toward progress.”
Anne-Sophie Brazeau, co-founder and co-director of the project, explains: “A large number of participants helps ensure our research accurately reflects the needs of the T1D community. The more data we collect, the better equipped we are to innovate and develop solutions that are grounded in real-life experiences.”
Individuals living with T1D or LADA—as well as parents of children living with T1D—are invited to join the BETTER registry and share their experiences. Their participation contributes to deepening our understanding of diabetes and designing more effective, person-centered solutions.
About the Type 1 BETTER project
The BETTER Project (BEhaviors, Therapies, TEchnologies, and hypoglycemic Risk in type 1 diabetes) is a Canadian research initiative that brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, and individuals living with T1D. Its mission is to improve quality of life for those affected by this condition by conducting research on various aspects of T1D, developing practical resources, and promoting access to optimal care. In addition to the registry, the BETTER team has created a free online training platform available to adults living with T1D and to healthcare professionals seeking to learn more about life with and the management of the condition.
