The Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela, announced that through an investment of €5 million, more than 220 people will benefit from an insulin pump service.

This service will be offered to patients aged 18 and under who have Type 1 Diabetes, as well as to patients who develop Type 3c Diabetes following pancreatic cancer surgery.

Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that Type 1 Diabetes is a condition that often develops in childhood or adolescence, where the pancreas stops producing insulin due to an inflammatory reaction. He noted that this condition requires lifelong management, and the frequent monitoring of blood sugar, daily insulin administration, and careful lifestyle adjustments to prevent life-threatening complications.

The minister stated that currently in Malta, there are around 220 individuals aged 18 or younger with Type 1 Diabetes. He said that the launch of this service builds on the successful introduction of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM). The insulin pump, when used together with the CGM, stimulates the function of the pancreas as the pump automatically administers the necessary insulin dose with minimal patient input.

The minister also noted that around 25 new cases are diagnosed each year in children and adolescents aged between 2 and 18 years. In addition to the provision of these pumps, a dedicated clinic will also be opened to offer comprehensive and multidisciplinary care.

"This initiative marks a significant advancement in diabetes care and underscores the Government's commitment to providing innovative care solutions that improve patient outcomes and quality of life," the minister said.