These are just some of the questions addressed in a new DVD to be launched by the Scottish Diabetes Research Network in Dundee this week. Featuring testimonials by 7 patients who have been involved with diabetes research trials, the DVD will be played in hospitals, clinics and GP waiting rooms around Scotland.

"We want to let people know the aims and objectives of our research, how it works, and how they can get involved," said Dr John Petrie of the University of Dundee, Chair of the Scottish Diabetes Research Network.

"Everyone featured in the DVD is a real patient who has been engaged in trials or other research projects, and they can be seen explaining why they got involved, what they had to do and how it went. It is intended as a real insight into what actually happens with diabetes research and what it can help achieve."

The DVD will support the creation of the Diabetes National Research Register, a databank of patients across the country who are willing to take part in diabetes research projects.

"This is a hugely valuable resource as it will help us to carry out wider-ranging trials, which are essential if we are to develop new treatments for diabetes," said Dr Petrie.

The DVD is launched at an event this Friday, May 16th, at the Strathmore Diabetes Centre at Ninewells Hospital and Medical School in Dundee, which will be attended by many of the patients featured in the DVD. Dr Petrie will present some facts about the National Research Register, then the DVD will be shown. The patients in the DVD will all then be presented with a small gift.

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk