Sansum Diabetes Research Institute

Education and Community OutreachIn addition to clinical research, SDRI is deeply committed to diabetes education and health equity. Since 2008, the Ocho Pasos program has addressed the high prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the Latino community, where cultural, linguistic, and systemic barriers often limit access to care. SDRI-trained Community Health Workers (CHWs), who are trusted leaders within their communities, lead participants through an eight-week, Spanish-language course focused on culturally relevant education around nutrition, physical activity, and diabetes self-management.Nationally recognized for its success, Ocho Pasos has demonstrated measurable improvements in participants waist circumference, BMI, and glycemic control, even among individuals facing challenges such as food insecurity and limited access to healthcare. SDRI is proud to sustain and expand this impactful program, ensuring that underserved communities are equipped with the tools they need for lasting health.SDRIs type 1 diabetes (T1D) program continues to deliver essential research and community support to individuals and families affected by T1D. In 2024, SDRI launched LADATalk, a monthly support group for individuals living with Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA). This welcoming space offers connection, shared experiences, and expert insight tailored to this unique form of diabetes.Beyond LADA, SDRI reinforced its support for the broader T1D community through initiatives such as the OneTalk peer support program, family outreach events, research presentations, and a continued partnership with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and Breakthrough T1D on the 5th annual Returning to School with Diabetes Town Hall. The event featured a diverse panel of experts in diabetes and mental health, offering vital guidance to families navigating school life with diabetes.

Clinical CareSDRI provides expert clinical care across three key areas: diabetes in pregnancy, pediatric endocrinology, and adult endocrinology. In 2024, SDRI supported more than 250 individuals impacted by diabetes, including 93 adults, 22 children, and 143 women with pregnancies complicated by diabetes. Also in 2024, SDRI expanded services and introduced counseling services to support the emotional well-being of our patients.For nearly 50 years, SDRI has been a recognized leader in managing diabetes during pregnancy. Our team is dedicated to advancing research that reduces the risks associated with diabetes in pregnancy. During appointments, patients receive personalized care and innovative tools to help stabilize blood glucose levels, limiting complications for both mother and baby.SDRI proudly partners with the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department to ensure that underrepresented Latina women receive high-quality, culturally competent care throughout pregnancies affected by diabetes.Recognizing that diabetes affects individuals differently, SDRI is committed to understanding sex-specific differences in disease progression and treatment response. Women living with diabetes face increased health risks, including a higher likelihood of cardiovascular complications, gestational diabetes, and an association between early menopause and type 2 diabetes.In 2024, SDRI launched three pioneering clinical trials focused on continuous glucose monitoring and lifestyle interventions for diabetes in pregnancy. SDRI remains at the forefront of advancing care that improves both the health span and lifespan of women and their babies during and after pregnancy.To improve accessibility of mental health services for those impacted by diabetes locally, SDRI began providing counseling support in 2024 for patients allowing them the opportunity to meet with a licensed therapist. Additionally, SDRI provides three monthly support groups for those impacted diabetes and various outreach events for individuals and families.