About the Internship

Project Summary:

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of pancreatic beta cells, causing diminished insulin production. T1D affects 8.4 million individuals, with 1.5 million under the age of 20. T1D research is crucial because it aims to unravel the disease’s underlying mechanisms, paving the way for improved treatment options and ultimately a cure. Research advancements can enhance the quality of life for persons living with T1D by developing robust management strategies (i.e., glucose sensors and insulin delivery systems). Research can identify T1D development risk factors to delay disease progression in children at high risk. My research focuses on participant recruitment for TrialNet, a research consortium dedicated to preventing or delaying T1D progression. TrialNet screenings detect T1D stages, averting life-threatening hospitalizations. However, recruitment has declined since the COVID-19 outbreak. After analyzing the departmental database, we've identified recruitment barriers: apprehension about experimental drug usage, lack of inclusivity, rumors of misconduct, protocol burden, preference for online alternatives, and geographical limitations. Addressing these limitations involves recognizing the barriers, engaging participant partners, tailoring recruitment approaches, simplifying eligibility, offering reimbursements, enhancing communication, fostering trust, streamlining procedures, and continuously adapting strategies. Our research team strives to overcome obstacles hindering patient recruitment in T1D Research.

Brief Overview