Heart Health for T1D: Unlocking Breakthroughs in Europe and Beyond
The link between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a critical yet often overlooked issue. Today, we delve into the world of research and collaboration, where experts are coming together to address this very concern. But here's where it gets controversial: despite advancements in T1D care, the risk of heart complications remains high, and the available treatment options are limited.
The Event: Uniting Forces for CVD and T1D
On November 14, 2025, in Brussels, Belgium, a pivotal event titled "Type 1 Diabetes & Cardiovascular Disease: From Data to Solutions" took place. Co-hosted by Breakthrough T1D, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Europe, and the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD), this gathering brought diverse stakeholders to the table. The goal? To tackle the lack of therapies for CVD in individuals living with T1D.
Speakers and Insights
The event featured a range of speakers, each shedding light on different aspects of this complex issue. Jonathan Rosen, Ph.D., Director of Research at Breakthrough T1D, highlighted the overlooked connection between CVD and T1D. Other speakers discussed lessons from T2D and CVD, the gaps in evidence, and the exciting frontiers in CVD care for autoimmune diseases. The inclusion of T1D in CVD therapy development was also a key topic.
Attendees: A Collaborative Effort
Breakthrough T1D was represented by key figures, including Sanjoy Dutta, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer, and Jonathan Rosen, Ph.D., Director of Research. Other attendees included representatives from the European Medicines Agency, Member of the European Parliament Elena Nevado del Campo (EPP, Spain), individuals living with T1D, researchers, and industry leaders. This diverse group of attendees showcases the collaborative nature of the event and the shared goal of improving heart health for the T1D community.
The Importance of Addressing CVD in T1D
People living with T1D face a heightened risk of heart complications, despite the progress made in T1D care. Currently, there are limited options to mitigate this risk. In the U.S. and Europe, blood pressure and lipid-lowering medications (like statins) are available, but they only scratch the surface. Therapies like SLGT inhibitors (empagliflozin and dapagliflozin) have revolutionized heart failure treatment for those without diabetes or with T2D, but people with T1D were excluded from these clinical trials. While these drugs are sometimes prescribed off-label for T1D patients, greater accessibility requires regulatory approval, which is currently lacking in Europe.
The situation is dire: there are no cardioprotective therapies available in the U.S. or Europe that can prevent CVD in people with T1D. We need more targeted, innovative approaches to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications and, ideally, prevent them altogether.
A Call to Action: Events as Catalysts for Change
The unmet need for the T1D community is clear. The risk of CVD is high, and the available options are insufficient. Events like these serve as a rallying cry for collaborative research, better data integration, and global cooperation. The European Commission's cardiovascular health plan, which includes the Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes, is a testament to the growing prioritization of CVD and the commitment of European stakeholders to accelerate breakthroughs.
A Shared Vision for Better Heart Health
"Cardiovascular disease continues to be the leading cause of death for people with type 1 diabetes, yet targeted therapies and guidelines are lacking. This event, in collaboration with IDF Europe, ISPAD, and aligned with the European Commission's cardiovascular plan, brings together experts to drive collaborative solutions and accelerate progress toward better prevention and treatment strategies." - Carmen Hurtado del Pozo, Director of European Research at Breakthrough T1D
Breakthrough T1D is actively supporting clinical trials for therapies that can reduce or prevent CVD in people with T1D. We are also identifying new projects and researchers to fund, further accelerating these efforts. Our commitment extends globally, ensuring that people with T1D have access to the best possible therapies and live fulfilling lives.
Events like these are crucial in bringing together the right people to make a difference in Europe and beyond. It's time to unite and work towards a future where heart health for the T1D community is a priority.
Written by: Sandy Vogt, Ph.D.
