Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) participated in a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing titled “A Future Without Type 1 Diabetes: Accelerating Breakthroughs and Creating Hope.” The hearing featured testimony from youth delegates living with Type 1 diabetes and Dr. Griffin P. Rodgers, Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
Senator Britt opened her remarks by commending the young advocates in attendance, thanking them for sharing their personal stories and for helping to drive progress in diabetes research. She emphasized the importance of their voices in inspiring others and contributing to the development of potential treatments and cures.
Britt also revisited a previous discussion with Dr. Rodgers during a 2023 Appropriations hearing, noting Alabama’s high rate of gestational diabetes. She asked how NIDDK is addressing diabetes management during pregnancy and ensuring maternal and infant health is prioritized in research.
Dr. Rodgers acknowledged current clinical practices, such as glucose tolerance testing in the third trimester, but suggested these may miss early signs of gestational diabetes. He pointed to the ongoing GO MOMs study, which examines the use of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to improve outcomes for both mothers and babies.
Senator Britt also addressed broader concerns about the affordability of treatments, cautioning against repeating the challenges faced with insulin access. She stressed the importance of fostering innovation in research without compromising affordability and access for patients.
Dr. Rodgers responded by reaffirming NIDDK’s focus on developing curative strategies for Type 1 diabetes, including restoring insulin production through biological approaches.
Senator Britt concluded by emphasizing bipartisan support for advancing diabetes research: “There are many issues that unfortunately divide us along party lines, but this is not one of them. Democrats, Republicans, we all stand united in making sure we have the research, treatment, and access needed for every American.”
