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Presenter Profiles: Clinical Heterogeneity of Pediatric Diabetes

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Clinical Heterogeneity of Pediatric Diabetes

Tuesday, June 7 at 8:00 a.m. CT
Great Hall B
Level 1, Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

 

Streaming: Live and On-Demand


Q&A with Maria J. Redondo, MD, PhD, MPH

Professor of Pediatrics,
Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children’s Hospital

Maria J. Redondo, MD, PhD, MPH
Maria J. Redondo, MD, PhD, MPH

What is your presentation about?
Diabetes in children is becoming increasingly heterogeneous. Pediatric type 2 diabetes is increasing in frequency and, as it is now recognized in adults, there seem to be distinct clusters. In type 1 diabetes, genetic, immunologic, histopathological and metabolic studies suggest different subtypes (or endotypes). In addition, children may present with characteristics that make diabetes classification difficult at the time of diagnosis. Our ultimate goal is to understand the implications of this heterogeneity for prediction, prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

What makes this topic important in 2022?
The incidence of pediatric diabetes is increasing and more atypical cases are being diagnosed. By dissecting the heterogeneity of diabetes, we will be able to apply precision medicine and ultimately, improve health outcomes in children with diabetes, which are currently worse than in adults.

How did you become involved with this area of diabetes research or care?
I was first involved in this field by outstanding mentors with contagious passion for excellence in diabetes research and care. I continue in this field because I have been given the unique opportunity to combine clinical care, where I observe what the significant gaps in knowledge are, and research, where I strive to cover them.

What are you most looking forward to at the 82nd Scientific Sessions?
Everything! Cutting-edge, thought provoking basic research; clinical research that may change my practice; and, of course, meeting in person with many of my collaborators and friends from all around the world. Visiting again the French Quarter is also exciting!

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