Complications
Despite advances that are giving people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) better tools to control their disease, those living with T1D are still at risk of developing serious health problems such as kidney, eye, heart and nerve diseases. The JDRF Complications Program focuses on diabetic kidney and eye diseases, two areas where we believe we have the best opportunity to make short- and long-term impact on people’s lives.
Our Approach
Research shows rigorous insulin therapy could significantly reduce the risk of diabetes complications. Only one-third of people with T1D, however, are currently achieving the recommended blood-sugar targets.
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Discover biomarkers
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Identify genes
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Include people with T1D in type 2 diabetes clinical trials

Many Paths, One Purpose
Our research into complications stemming from T1D, including vision and kidney disease, is just one potential pathway to finding a cure for T1D. Explore JDRF’s ambitious research portfolio.
All ResearchGet involved and help lead us toward a cure
Complications Progress
2017
Changing the standards of care for T1D
Three different therapies have shown that they improve outcomes for people with T1D, including a drug that reduces the risk of cardiovascular and kidney complications in individuals with long-standing T1D.
2018
A moonshot to restore vision
JDRF and The Mary Tyler Moore & S. Robert Levine, MD Charitable Foundation launch “Restoring Vision: A JDRF Moonshot Initiative,” which will convene global research leaders to design a next-generation strategy for reversing blindness in T1D individuals.
2018
New gene that causes kidney disease in T1D
In one of the first and most extensive studies of its type, researchers have identified a new gene that causes chronic kidney disease (CKD).
2019
FDA Approves the First Low Blood Sugar Treatment without an Injection
FDA approved Baqsimi, the first non-injectable emergency treatment for severe episodes of hypoglycemia, for individuals four years and older.
Looking Ahead
To date, more than $115 million has been invested by JDRF in complications research. One day, complications are reversed and prevented for people living with T1D.