A new strategic partnership has been established between Diabetes Australia and Cystic Fibrosis Research Limited to fund research into cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD). This collaboration involves an investment of almost $600,000, with an initial $80,000 designated for identifying research priorities important to the CFRD community.
Understanding Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes (CFRD)
CFRD affects approximately one-third of individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. It develops as a complication of cystic fibrosis, attributed to pancreatic damage, leading to both insulin resistance and insufficiency.
Effective management of CFRD is crucial for maintaining lung health, preventing nutritional decline, supporting healthy weight and strength, and reducing infection risk. CFRD is characterized as a form of pancreatogenic, or Type 3c, diabetes, distinct from Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, requiring specialized care and research approaches.
Partnership Objectives
Justine Cain, Group CEO of Diabetes Australia, stated that the agreement reflects the organization's commitment to Australians living with various forms of diabetes. She noted that the partnership aims to translate evidence into action and acknowledged the genetic factors influencing both diabetes and cystic fibrosis, which present opportunities for enhanced management.
Petrina Fraccaro, Director of Cystic Fibrosis Research Limited and CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Queensland, emphasized that CFRD is a common and serious complication of cystic fibrosis, often misunderstood. She highlighted the partnership's role in ensuring research priorities are shaped by the lived experiences of Australians with CFRD. The investment is intended to improve the quality of life and long-term health outcomes for the community, especially as people with cystic fibrosis are living longer.
Research Implementation and Timeline
The initial funding call will focus on a national approach to comprehensively understand the challenges faced by the CFRD community, prioritizing lived experience. This phase will assist in identifying specific research topics for future funding, aiming to develop evidence-based solutions.
Identified priorities will be shared with the CFRD community and aligned research funding agencies, with invitations for collaboration and co-funding. Project proposal nominations are anticipated to open in March 2026. This partnership aligns with the 2025-2030 Diabetes Australia Research Strategy, which advocates for research informed by lived experience.