with Professor Ken Shaw

Diabetes affects a substantial proportion of the UK population, accounting for up to 10% of the current NHS annual budget. Predisposition to diabetes (“honey urine”) has long been known since antiquity with classic early descriptions, very similar to that seen today. Historically, diabetes was primarily that now known as Type 1 diabetes, a condition requiring lifelong insulin injection therapy, while in present times Type 2 diabetes predominates, particularly due to current life style behaviours, albeit underpinned by genetic susceptibility.

Two years ago we celebrated the centenary of the Nobel Prize winning discovery of insulin, with which there have been hugely dramatic subsequent improvements, continuing to this very day. Prospects of an eventual cure remain a much anticipated outcome, but still yet to be realised. Meanwhile Type 2 diabetes, doubling in prevalence every 10 years, has witnessed a plethora of new drugs targeting blood sugar reduction, as well as other potential benefits for heart, kidney and even longevity. Reversing Type 2 diabetes into remission is now possible, but at the demand of a tight dietary discipline.

Professor Shaw’s talk will reflect on ancient understanding of diabetes and how it is now manifest in modern times at epidemic magnitude. Diabetes is prevalent, approaching 5 million people in the UK at present estimate. Living with diabetes requires an understanding of its underlying nature and potential consequences, but the prospects for the future are undoubtedly positive with astonishing advances in therapy and technological support.

Professor Ken SHAW MA MD FRCP

Professor Ken Shaw is Emeritus Professor of Medicine at the University of Portsmouth. Educated at Downing College, Cambridge and University College Hospital, London, he was Consultant Physician at Queen Alexandra & Petersfield  Hospitals for 30 years,  & former NHS Director of Research and Development for SE Hampshire & the IOW.

Previously Honorary Chairman of the National Association of British Clinical Diabetologists (ABCD) and Editor–in-Chief of the medical Journal Practical Diabetes International, Professor Shaw has held various professional advisory appointments including serving as Honorary Secretary to the Royal College of Physicians Joint Speciality Committee for Diabetes & Endocrinology; as Consultant Medical Advisor to the Department of Transport (DVLA), the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA); and currently as Medical Director of the Solent Diabetes Charitable Association, as well as an executive committee member of the West Sussex History of Medicine Society.

His recent work has involved the setting of occupational standards for insulin treated diabetes engaged in commercial transport at sea, on the roads and in the air.

Last Updated on 28th September 2024