HAVE DIABETES? A FEW SIMPLE STEPS MAY KEEP YOUR FEET HEALTHY

November is American Diabetes Month

CHICAGO, Illinois, Nov. 9, 2017 – If you have diabetes and think you are otherwise healthy, it can be easy to ignore the doctor’s good advice.

But that can catch up with you. One of the challenging complications of diabetes occurs when patients’ high blood sugar damages the blood vessels, which leads to poor blood circulation in the legs and feet. When the feet are deprived of oxygen-rich blood, a condition called diabetic foot can develop, causing foot ulcers that heal very slowly, or not at all. As the disease progresses it can lead to gangrene and even amputation.

“Around 80 percent of diabetes-related lower extremity amputations start out as a foot ulcer,” said vascular surgeon Dr. Anil P. Hingorani, a member of the Society for Vascular Surgery. Vascular surgeons typically have many patients with diabetes, who need specialized vascular care to keep their feet healthy. For these patients, it is extremely important to pay attention to foot health, and to never ignore an open sore on the foot.

Diabetes patients with lower extremity wounds should be evaluated by a podiatrist, physician or an advanced health practitioner, said Dr. Hingorani.

If foot ulcers develop and don’t heal, it may be a sign that the legs and feet are not getting enough oxygen-rich blood due to narrowed, hardened arteries that are made worse by diabetes.

At that point, patients should see a vascular surgeon who can evaluate the patient’s vascular health as well as the foot ulcer. That doesn’t mean they will have to have surgery, but vascular surgeons are highly trained to know exactly how to treat diabetic foot complications. Patients who have regular Medicare (not an HMO) can see a surgeon without a referral. (A “find a specialist” search tool is here.)

Meanwhile, if you are willing to take a few simple steps to prevent diabetic foot disease, the following tips may help:

See the doctor regularly. Patients with diabetes should see a doctor or a clinician who is trained in foot care once a year or more often, depending on their level of risk for foot problems. If you have had previous foot sores, an amputation or diabetes-related eye problems, you may need to see someone more often.

You should also be checked more often if you have neuropathy (a lack of sensation in the feet) ischemia (a dangerous condition that cuts off blood circulation) or if your feet are becoming deformed by diabetes.

Learn to take care of your feet. Patients with diabetes should be educated about how to take care of their feet. You need to know how to check your feet for sores or cuts, the best ways to keep feet clean and dry.
Wear the right shoes. Diabetes patients do not need to buy therapeutic shoes if they have an average risk of diabetic foot, but special shoes are important for high-risk patients. During your foot checkups, ask if you need special shoes.

Even if you don’t qualify for therapeutic shoes, it is very important to wear shoes that fit comfortably. A study of 400 diabetic patients with healed ulcers found that 50 percent of women and 27 percent of men were wearing dangerous shoes, with: open toes or heels, no laces, a shallow or narrow toe box or high heels that put pressure on the ball of the foot.

Best shoes have broad and square toes, three or four lacing eyes per side, a padded tongue, are of lightweight materials and are big enough inside to accommodate a cushioned sole or orthotic inlay.

Avoid preventative surgery. Newer research recommends against getting a preventative stent or surgical revascularization of your leg arteries if you don’t have diabetic foot or other symptoms associated with peripheral artery disease.
Stay updated on best treatments. If you get a plantar foot ulcer, the best practice is to not walk on the ulcer. Your physician may prescribe a total contact cast or a fixed-ankle walking boot. This has not always been the standard treatment, but has recently been changed.

For many patients with diabetes, the illness requires careful attention to daily routine. Foot care should be part of that daily health maintenance.

The Society for Vascular Surgery® (SVS) is a 5,800-plus member, not-for-profit professional medical society, composed primarily of specialty-trained vascular surgeons, which seeks to advance excellence and innovation in vascular health through education, advocacy, research and public awareness.

Download the PDF to see details:

SVS_Diabetes_Feet

Max Domi Set to Light It Up for Canadians Living with Diabetes

Partnering with Ascensia Diabetes Care Canada, Max Domi sheds light on diabetes management with the new CONTOUR^® NEXT ONE blood glucose meter and App System

TORONTO, Aug. 29, 2017 /CNW/ - Ascensia Diabetes Care Canada, in partnership with professional hockey player Max Domi, today announced the launch of the Light it Up campaign, designed to raise awareness of the new CONTOUR^® NEXT ONE blood glucose meter and App system and help Canadians better manage their diabetes. For the third consecutive year, Domi is working with Ascensia to share his incredible story, so that it can inspire and educate Canadians about living with diabetes.

Max Domi partners with Ascensia Diabetes Care Canada to shed light with the new CONTOUR® NEXT ONE blood glucose meter and App System (CNW Group/Ascensia Diabetes Care Canada)

"I have been living with diabetes for almost my entire life and thanks to my family, healthcare professionals and the right tools, I have never let diabetes stand in the way of crushing my goals," says Domi. "I want all Canadians - adults and kids – living with diabetes to feel empowered to take control and not let diabetes be a barrier to their success. Partnering with Ascensia has given me the opportunity to share my story and connect with individuals from all walks of life to make a difference."

As part of the Light it Up campaign, Domi made a surprise visit on August 24 to one of Diabetes Canada's D-Camps called Camp Discovery, a center located in London, ON and run by Diabetes Canada that is specifically designed for children living with diabetes, for some interactive activities, fun diabetes education and autograph signing. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at the age of 12, Domi is active on and off the ice and is a passionate leader in the diabetes community, motivating Canadians with diabetes to achieve their dreams and live remarkable lives.

"We couldn't be happier to be part of the Light it Up campaign with Max," says Rick Blickstead, President and CEO, Diabetes Canada. "Having Max visit Camp Discovery was an amazing event for the young people and an unforgettable experience. We hope that having Max share his story will inspire them to feel confident about managing their diabetes and reaching for the stars."

There are more than eleven million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes and every three minutes another Canadian is diagnosed.¹ Chances are, diabetes affects you or someone close to you.

The launch of the CONTOUR^® NEXT ONE meter and CONTOUR^® Diabetes App, marks a new approach to diabetes management. The system features a wireless-enabled smart meter that links to a mobile device via Bluetooth^®. The intuitive CONTOUR^® Diabetes App collects, stores and analyzes patient blood sugar levels received from the meter. It also features smartLIGHT technology using coloured lights to quickly indicate if a reading is above, below or within target range to help individuals better manage their condition.

"When we designed the new CONTOUR^® NEXT ONE meter and app with smartLIGHT technology, we were inspired by Max and the many other Canadians living with diabetes," says Russ Newsome, Region Head of North America, Ascensia Diabetes Care. "He is a true champion for the cause and we are thrilled to continue our partnership and show how these intuitive tools can help all Canadians with diabetes get more insightful blood glucose results, without comprising ease of use and accuracy."

The CONTOUR® NEXT ONE meter results go beyond the minimum industry accuracy standards² and is the most accurate system developed by Ascensia Diabetes Care. The captured blood glucose results can be easily reviewed and shared effortlessly with healthcare professionals online; helping patients make more informed decisions and create better management plans.

To supplement the Light it Up campaign, Ascensia will also be working with regional spokespeople living with diabetes to share their story and educate Canadians across the country. To watch the Light it Up campaign video for the CONTOUR® NEXT ONE meter, please visit youtube.com/watch?v=oIdzVU-9ZoQ.

________________________

¹ http://www.diabetes.ca/about-diabetes/types-of-diabetes

²Current regulations based on Health Canada recognized ISO 15197:2013 standard requires results within ±15% range, specifically: ≥95% of results must fall within ±0.83 mmol/L for blood glucose concentrations <5.55 mmol/L and within ±15% for blood glucose concentrations ≥5.55 mmol/L.

About Ascensia Diabetes Care

Ascensia Diabetes Care is a global specialist diabetes care company, dedicated to helping people living with diabetes. Our mission is to empower people living with diabetes through innovative solutions that simplify and improve their lives. We use our innovation and specialist expertise in diabetes to develop high quality solutions and tools that make a positive, daily difference for people with diabetes.

Home to the world renowned CONTOUR™ portfolio of blood glucose monitoring systems, our products combine advanced technology with user-friendly functionality that help people with diabetes to manage their condition. We are committed to continued research, innovation and development of new products and solutions. As a trusted partner in the diabetes community, we collaborate closely with healthcare professionals and other partners to ensure our products meet the highest standards of accuracy, precision and reliability, and that we conduct our business compliantly and with integrity.

Ascensia Diabetes Care was established in 2016 through the sale of Bayer Diabetes Care to Panasonic Healthcare Holdings Co., Ltd. Ascensia Diabetes Care products are sold in more than 125 countries. Ascensia Diabetes Care has around 1,700 employees and operations in 33 countries.

For further information, please visit the Ascensia Diabetes Care website at: www.contournextone.ca

SOURCE Ascensia Diabetes Care Canada

Canada's only Hockey Camp for Children with Diabetes Kicks Off

TORONTO, July 18, 2017 /CNW/ - The Dskate Hockey Program kicks off their Hockey Camp program in Milton, Ontario on Monday, July 24, 2017 – a hockey program dedicated to young players living with diabetes. The goal of the program is to help young athletes achieve a greater quality-of-life, while discovering their limitless potential to succeed. Each year, the camp offers professional hockey skills training for children with diabetes, along with diabetes management education with a goal to develop empowered and excited kids, taking care of their own diabetes that feel like they are not so different from everyone else.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

Dr. Michael Riddell, Senior Scientist at LMC Diabetes & Endocrinology and Professor in the School of Kinesiology & Health Science and the Muscle Health Research Centre at York University.
Dessi Zaharieva, PhD candidate in the School of Kinesiology & Health Science and the Muscle Health Research Centre at York University.
DSkate program participants (both children and their parents) will also be available for interviews.
Cory Conacher, NHL Hockey Player living with Type 1 diabetes will be at the camp Wednesday and Thursday afternoon.

WHEN:	Monday, July 24, 2017
	Opening Ceremonies at 8:30 a.m.
	Interviews are available between 9:15 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

WHERE:	Milton Sports Centre
	605 Santa Maria Blvd.
	Milton, Ontario \| L9T 6J5

ABOUT DSKATE:
DSkate is a unique hockey program offering a hockey + diabetes sports education program which brings together elite-level professionals and individuals living with diabetes. The program unites the various components involved in diabetes management to support exercise and nutritional programming for increased activity and improved quality of life.

Ascensia Diabetes Care and Medtronic are the education sponsors.

Encouraging you every step of the way: Health coaches help Canadians manage chronic disease

MARKHAM, ON, June 22, 2017 /CNW/ - Saint Elizabeth is pleased to announce a new partnership with insurance carrier Medavie Blue Cross, designed to improve the health of Canadians.

The partnership will allow specially-qualified clinicians to help plan members and their families take action and stay on track with better chronic disease management and healthy lifestyle choices. (CNW Group/Saint Elizabeth Health Care)

Medavie Blue Cross is now offering Saint Elizabeth's national virtual health coaching service as part of its Managing Chronic Disease extended health benefit program, delivered through a nation-wide network of providers. The partnership will allow specially-qualified clinicians to help plan members and their families take action and stay on track with better chronic disease management and healthy lifestyle choices.

"The high rate of chronic disease in Canada is a serious challenge," notes Shirlee Sharkey, CEO of Saint Elizabeth. "Engaging patients in their own health and wellbeing will benefit families, employers and society, while reducing the burden on our health care system. We are excited to be working with Medavie Blue Cross and leveraging our shared not-for-profit values to bring about positive change."

Effective immediately, plan members of Medavie Blue Cross and their families can access comprehensive coaching and customized health care services to assist with:

Better Heart Health
Diabetes Care
Quit Smoking
Better Lung health

"Medavie Blue Cross is committed to work with strong partners to provide easier access to quality care and improve patient health outcomes," says Anne Nicoll, Vice-President, Business Development at Medavie Blue Cross. "The deep clinical roots and expertise of Saint Elizabeth allow us to help members across Canada take charge of their health, developing action plans and goal setting."

Together, Saint Elizabeth and Medavie Blue Cross have almost 200 years of combined history in providing health services and solutions to meet the needs of Canadians.

In 2015, Medavie Blue Cross became the first benefit provider in Canada to offer chronic disease management as an extended health care benefit in group and individual plans, with a focus on removing potential barriers to self-care.

FAST FACTS:

Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide (World Health Organization)
Almost 60% of employees are living with a chronic disease, contributing to lost productivity, higher drug spends and more disability claims (Sanofi Canada)
Since 2015, Saint Elizabeth has provided more than 3,000 virtual coaching sessions with high satisfaction rates – 90% of clients would recommend the service

About Saint Elizabeth
Saint Elizabeth is a national social enterprise providing home care, health solutions and education to people where they are and when they need it. With Canadian roots and more than 100 years of expertise, the not-for-profit charitable organization is accelerating health care innovation to support healthy lives globally. Through its team of 9,000 health leaders, Saint Elizabeth delivers 20,000 care exchanges daily, totalling 50 million in the last decade alone. Learn more at saintelizabeth.com or find us on social media.

About Medavie Blue Cross
Medavie Blue Cross is a premier all-in-one carrier that provides health, dental, travel, life and disability benefits to plan members nation-wide. The organization also administers government-sponsored health programs across Canada. Medavie Blue Cross and Medavie Health Services, the largest private provider of Emergency Medical Services in Canada, are subsidiaries of Medavie. As a not-for-profit organization, Medavie Blue Cross is proud to commit an annual social dividend to the Medavie Health Foundation to promote healthier communities.

SOURCE Saint Elizabeth Health Care

Government of Canada and JDRF join forces to defeat diabetes

Building a strong partnership to accelerate clinical research on type 1 diabetes

OTTAWA, April 10, 2017 /CNW/ - David McGuinty, MP for Ottawa South, on behalf of the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Health, announced today that the Government of Canada is investing in a new partnership that will help improve health outcomes and quality of care for the more than 300,000 Canadians living with type 1 diabetes, and their families.

The announcement was made at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). Members of the All-Party Juvenile Diabetes Caucus – Pamela Goldsmith-Jones, MP for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country, Sonia Sidhu, MP for Brampton South, and Filomena Tassi, MP for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas – were on hand for the announcement.

The Government of Canada, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), is partnering with JDRF to support clinical trials research for type 1 diabetes. Both CIHR and JDRF have committed $15M to the Partnership to Defeat Diabetes, for a total investment of $30M.

JDRF and CIHR share a vision of improved care, outcomes and treatment for Canadians living with Type 1 diabetes. The investment announced today will advance the search for a cure and ensure that research results are applied for patient care for those living with diabetes and other autoimmune diseases. This world-class collaboration also provides an opportunity to maintain Canada's leadership in diabetes research and clinical trials.

CIHR welcomes investments from important charities like JDRF. These partnerships play a key role in advancing world-class research that strengthens the health care system and improves the health of Canadians.

Quotes

"The Government of Canada recognizes the impact that type 1 diabetes has on Canadians and their families. This research will help improve the quality of life for Canadians living with type 1 diabetes and drive efforts to find a cure for this condition."
Jane Philpott
Minister of Health

"CIHR is proud to be working with JDRF to support research on type 1 diabetes. This new partnership will focus the efforts of the diabetes research community in Canada and speed the development of new and better treatments for all Canadians with diabetes. "
Dr. Philip Sherman
Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes

"We are honoured to partner with CIHR to continue funding the best and brightest scientists in the field. This partnership will enable JDRF Canada to make significant advancements in the fight against diabetes and to positively impact the lives of the hundreds of thousands of Canadians currently living with type 1 diabetes. I am also grateful for the hard work of the All-Party Juvenile Diabetes Caucus, chaired by MP Pam Goldsmith-Jones. Pam is a strong advocate for the partnership between the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and JDRF, and for Canada's leadership in tackling diabetes."
Dave Prowten
President and CEO, JDRF Canada

"Canada is known for its state-of-the-art type 1 diabetes research, and has played a pivotal role in ground-breaking discoveries. We are pleased to be entering into this exciting partnership with CIHR to advance global science excellence."
Derek Rapp
CEO, JDRF International

"As a parent of a daughter who lives with type 1 diabetes, I know how challenging life is for these children and their families. Canadians are very grateful to Minister Philpott and for the constant efforts of JDRF, which have resulted in this historic investment in diabetes research."
Pamela Goldsmith-Jones, MP for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country,
Chair of the All-Party Juvenile Diabetes Caucus

Quick Facts

Type 1 diabetes is a disease in which the pancreas does not produce insulin. When this happens, blood glucose levels rise and, over time, the high level of glucose can damage nerves, blood vessels and organs.
An estimated 300,000 Canadians are living with type 1 diabetes. The number of people living with type 1 diabetes is increasing by 5% annually – and the greatest rise is in children under five years of age.
CIHR and JDRF have established a $30 million partnership to fund clinical research to improve the treatment of type 1 diabetes and accelerate the search for a cure.

At the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), we know that research has the power to change lives. As Canada's health research investment agency, we collaborate with partners and researchers to support the discoveries and innovations that improve our health and strengthen our health care system. www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca

JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research. JDRF's goal is to progressively remove the impact of type 1 diabetes from people's lives until we achieve a world without type 1 diabetes. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners and is the only organization with the scientific resources, regulatory influence, and a working plan to better treat, prevent, and eventually cure type 1 diabetes. As the largest charitable supporter of type 1 diabetes research, JDRF is currently sponsoring $530 million in scientific research in 18 countries.
www.jdrf.ca

SOURCE Canadian Institutes of Health Research

The launch of Dexcom Canada will reshape how Canadians living with diabetes access and use continuous glucose monitoring

Dexcom Inc., the leader in Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), has expanded with Canadian headquarters

Dexcom, Inc. (NASDAQ: DXCM) announced today that it is expanding its global presence with a new Canadian headquarters in Burnaby, British Columbia. The move aims to make it easier for more Canadians to get started with CGM.

Dexcom, Inc. (CNW Group/Dexcom, Inc.)

The launch of Dexcom (Canada) Inc. means that Canadians living with diabetes can expect enhanced customer experience and support, and the ability to purchase CGM systems directly at Dexcom.com/Canada. This expansion reflects Dexcom's mission and commitment to make it easier for Canadians living with diabetes to experience the benefits of CGM for diabetes management. Unlike blood glucose testing which gives a number for a single point in time, CGM shows where glucose is, where it's going, and how fast it's getting there – so patients can take quick action to avoid dangerous glucose events or increase time spent in range.

"Dexcom is committed to transforming diabetes care and management by delivering best-in-class solutions and by responding to the needs of the community," explains Kevin Sayer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Dexcom. "We are excited to share our dedication to driving better outcomes and improved quality of life for people living with diabetes in Canada."

Dexcom's new Canadian operation coincides with the launch of the Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM system. It is the only CGM system in North America approved to replace painful fingerprick glucose testing for diabetes treatment decisions, making it a significant leap forward in diabetes management (fingerpricks are only needed every 12 hours to calibrate). The Dexcom G5 is also the first and only fully mobile CGM system that sends glucose data directly to a compatible smart device. Securely transmitted every five minutes, this glucose information allows for real-time diabetes management.

The Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM System is approved to use in patients as young as 2 years of age, without the need for confirmatory fingerpricks. And with the ability to share data, parents can remotely monitor their child's glucose information and receive alerts – for peace of mind while their child is beyond their supervision.

"When I'm running long distances, hypos are a constant danger," explains endurance athlete Sébastien Sasseville, who lives with Type 1 diabetes. "With the Dexcom G5, I get glucose readings every five minutes so I know right where I stand, and where I'm headed. I can act immediately to bring my levels into the right zone. And all of this data is right on my phone, so I don't have to carry around my receiver which was a hassle. But the best part is I don't have to stop mid-run and do annoying, painful fingerpricks – I can really just focus on the finish line." With the help of his Dexcom CGM system, Sasseville has completed six Ironman Triathlons, run the Sahara Race, and, most recently, run 7,200 kilometres across Canada, the equivalent of 170 marathons.

The Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM System will be available within the first quarter of 2017. And marking Dexcom's commitment to helping Canadians access this technology, the company will be offering monthly pricing options for the first time globally. Canadians interested in the Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM system and staying up to date on its launch are encouraged to visit Dexcom.com/Canada.

About Diabetes and Continuous Glucose Monitoring
With diabetes, the body cannot produce or use the hormone insulin effectively, causing a buildup of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. People with diabetes who take insulin must monitor their blood glucose levels frequently. Uncontrolled glucose can cause health complications and even death.^i,ii

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is considered the most significant breakthrough in diabetes management in the past 40 years.ⁱⁱⁱCGM is important because, in addition to providing the glucose level, it provides the direction and rate of glucose change with the push of a button and alerts users when glucose is too low or too high with built-in and customizable alarms. A recent study showed that after one year, patients with type 1 diabetes who used CGM alone had significant A1C reductions regardless of the type of insulin delivery method used, including insulin pumps.^iv

About Dexcom, Inc.
Dexcom, Inc., headquartered in San Diego, CA, and has operations in Canada, is dedicated to helping people better manage their diabetes by developing and marketing continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products and tools for adult and pediatric patients. With exceptional performance, patient comfort and lifestyle flexibility at the heart of its technology, users have consistently ranked Dexcom highest in customer satisfaction and loyalty.^v For more information on the Dexcom CGM, visit www.dexcom.com.

References
i Hyperglycemia (High blood glucose). American Diabetes Association Web site. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hyperglycemia.html. Updated August 5, 2013. Accessed December 3, 2013.
ii Hypoglycemia (Low blood glucose). American Diabetes Association Web site. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hypoglycemia-low-blood.html. Updated July 16, 2013. Accessed December 3, 2013.
iii Clarke SF and Foster JR. A history of blood glucose meters and their role in self-monitoring of diabetes mellitus. Br J Biomed Sci. 2012;(3)2:83-93.
iv J. Soupal, J. Skrha Prazny, M. Flekac, L. Petruzelkova, J. Skrha, et al. Comparison of different treatment modalities for Type 1 diabetes including Sensor-Augmented Insulin Regimens (SAIR), in 52 weeks of follow ups: A COMISAIR Study. Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics. Vol 18, No. 9, Sept. 2016.
v dQ&A research, 2009-2016

Ascensia Diabetes Care receives Health Canada approval for the app-enabled CONTOUR® NEXT ONE blood glucose monitoring system

A REMARKABLY ACCURATE METER THAT SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATES WITH SMART MOBILE DEVICES TO MAKE CONNECTED MANAGEMENT EASY FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES

Ascensia Diabetes Care today announced the approval of the CONTOUR® NEXT ONE blood glucose monitoring system (BGMS) in Canada, one of the next steps in the evolution of self-monitoring of blood glucose. As part of the system, the CONTOUR® NEXT ONE meter and CONTOUR® DIABETES App seamlessly connect to allow the app to capture the meter's remarkably accurate blood glucose readings.

The system features an easy-to-use wireless-enabled smart meter that links to a smart phone via Bluetooth™. The CONTOUR® NEXT ONE meter connects to the CONTOUR® DIABETES App, a mobile app that collects, stores and analyzes patient blood glucose readings from the meter. The app combines these with other data input by the patient to provide detailed information about their condition that can help them understand how their daily activities may impact their blood glucose results, including alerts for critical high or critical low readings. The blood glucose measurements and patterns that are identified can also be shared with healthcare professionals to help support management plans.

Not only does the CONTOUR® NEXT ONE system simplify diabetes management and help make it easier for more people with diabetes to use their smartphone to manage their condition, it has also been demonstrated to be one of the most accurate systems to date provided by Ascensia Diabetes Care.

"At Ascensia Diabetes Care we are dedicated to helping improve the lives of people with diabetes. The launch of the CONTOUR® NEXT ONE blood glucose monitoring system is the latest of our high quality solutions to meet the needs of the diabetes community," explained Russ Newsome, Region Head of North America, Ascensia Diabetes Care. "The value for both patients and healthcare professionals in having easy access to highly accurate data that tracks their condition over time could be significant," he added.

Published study data has shown the CONTOUR® NEXT ONE meter to be remarkably accurate. Canadian industry standards for blood glucose meters have an acceptable error range of 15%¹ from lab readings. That means that readings on a meter can be 15% higher or lower, compared to the lab. CONTOUR® NEXT ONE meter results go beyond the industry standards, by coming within 8.4% of a lab reading.¹

The CONTOUR® DIABETES App presents blood glucose readings in a simple, intuitive and easy-to-review way, which may help improve a patient's engagement with and understanding of their results. The system is also designed to evolve in the future, bringing new capabilities and features to help people with diabetes manage their condition.

_{^{______________________________________________}}

_{¹ Christiansen M et al. Accuracy and user performance evaluation of a new blood glucose monitoring system in development for use with CONTOUR® NEXT test strips. Poster presented at the 15th Annual Meeting of the Diabetes Technology Society (DTS); 22–24 October, 2015; Bethesda, Maryland, USA.}

About Ascensia Diabetes Care

Home to the world renowned CONTOUR^TM portfolio of blood glucose monitoring systems, our products combine advanced technology with user-friendly functionality that help people with diabetes to manage their condition. We are committed to continued research, innovation and development of new products and solutions. As a trusted partner in the diabetes community, we collaborate closely with healthcare professionals and other partners to ensure our products meet the highest standards of accuracy, precision and reliability, and that we conduct our business compliantly and with integrity.

Ascensia Diabetes Care was established in 2016 through the sale of Bayer Diabetes Care to Panasonic Healthcare Holdings Co., Ltd. Ascensia Diabetes Care products are sold in more than 125 countries. Following the close of the transaction in all countries, Ascensia Diabetes Care will have around 1,700 employees and operations in 38 countries.

For further information please visit the Ascensia Diabetes Care website at www.contournextone.ascensiadiabetes.ca.

CONTOUR® is a registered trademark of Ascensia Diabetes Care Holdings AG.

The Bluetooth™ word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks herein is under license.

SOURCE Ascensia Diabetes Care

CONTOUR® NEXT and Max Domi Scoring for Diabetes

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Partners team up to mark Diabetes Awareness Month and raise money for JDRF

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Nov. 9, 2016 /CNW/ - Ascensia Diabetes Care Canada Inc. ("Ascensia") and CONTOUR^® NEXT are teaming up with professional hockey player Max Domi to "SCORE for Diabetes" during Diabetes Awareness Month. Throughout the month of November, for every point scored by Domi, Ascensia will donate $1,000.00¹ to JDRF, the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research.

"Getting support from my team is a huge part of how I manage my diabetes on and off the ice," says Domi. "Every single goal I score is special. This month I get to celebrate the two things I am most passionate about, diabetes and hockey, every time the puck crosses the goal line."

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a celebration focused on raising awareness for all forms of diabetes, its signs and symptoms, and gaining support for critical research toward preventing, better treating and curing all forms of the disease.²

"Lives are changed by raising awareness and funding research towards finding a cure for T1D and its complications," says Dave Prowten, President and CEO, JDRF Canada. "We are thrilled to be working with Ascensia and Max Domi to raise money throughout National Diabetes Awareness Month, and look forward to getting some goals in the net."

As the team progresses throughout November, the action can be followed off the ice through social media @Contour_diabetes and #scorefordiabetes.

Through their ongoing partnership, Max and Ascensia have also introduced CONTOUR^® NEXT's Powered by Accuracy 16 Reasons Contest to continue to educate all Canadians about diabetes. Fans can also go to poweredbyaccuracy.ca and enter 16 reasons why they deserve to see Max play live. Fans can enter for a chance to win the grand prize of a trip for four to Edmonton, Alberta to attend the January 16, 2017 game.³

"As a company, we are dedicated to improving the health and lives of people with diabetes, and understand the vital role played by further scientific research and increased public awareness," says Russ Newsome, Region Head of North America, Ascensia. "We are thrilled to be working with all of these partners to not only raise money for the JDRF in Canada, but also to celebrate the power of the team that supports diabetes management."

For more information on how you can get involved and help raise awareness for diabetes in your community, please contact your local JDRF office. Help JDRF continue to raise awareness about and fund type 1 diabetes research http://www.jdrf.ca/T1DLooksLikeMe/.

About Ascensia Diabetes Care
Ascensia Diabetes Care is a global specialist diabetes care company, dedicated to helping people living with diabetes. Our mission is to empower people living with diabetes through innovative solutions that simplify and improve their lives. We use our innovation and specialist expertise in diabetes to develop high quality solutions and tools that make a positive, daily difference for people with diabetes.

Ascensia Diabetes Care was established in 2016 through the sale of Bayer Diabetes Care to Panasonic Healthcare Holdings Co., Ltd. Ascensia Diabetes Care products are sold in more than 125 countries. Following the close of the transaction in all countries, Ascensia Diabetes Care will have around 1,700 employees and operations in 38 countries.

For further information please visit the Ascensia Diabetes Care website at: http://www.ascensiadiabetes.ca/en/home/.

CONTOUR™ is a registered trademark of Ascensia Diabetes Care Holdings AG.

¹ Up to a maximum of $30,000.00
² http://www.jdrf.ca/t1dlookslikeme/
³ NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of Canada who have reached the age of majority as of the date of entry. Enter by completing all required fields in Contest entry form on www.poweredbyaccuracy.ca. Limit one entry per person. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received.

SOURCE Ascensia Diabetes Care

Life Financial and Toronto Rehab Foundation to make an exciting announcement improving wellness around the globe through innovative diabetes prevention and management program

TORONTO, Nov. 9, 2016 /CNW/ - Sun Life Financial and the Toronto Rehab Foundation will be making an exciting donation and announcement about improving wellness around the globe through better diabetes prevention and management. This innovative program will extend diabetes care beyond hospital walls and empower individuals living with the disease to take control of their health, regardless of barriers such as geography, financial constraints and language. Hockey Hall of Famer Darryl Sittler and former NHL player Brandon (BJ) Crombeen will be on-hand to help launch this exciting new initiative.

DATE:	Monday, November 14, 2016

TIME:	11:15 a.m.

WHERE:	Toronto Rehab (TRI) Cardiac Rehab Indoor Track - Rumsey Centre 347 Rumsey Rd Toronto, ON, M4G 1R7

WHO:	Darryl Sittler, former NHL Player and Hockey Hall of Famer Brandon (BJ) Crombeen, former NHL Player Lisa Ritchie, Senior Vice-President & Chief Marketing Officer, Sun Life Financial Dr. Peter Pisters, President & CEO, University Health Network Dr. Paul Oh, Medical Director, Cardiac Prevention & Rehabilitation Program, TRI-UHN

Space is limited - members of the media are requested to RSVP to Alessandra Nigro at alessandra.nigro@sunlife.com.

About Sun Life Financial
Sun Life Financial is a leading international financial services organization providing a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to individuals and corporate customers. Sun Life Financial has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of June 30, 2016, the Sun Life Financial group of companies had total assets under management of $865 billion. For more information please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

About Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
As the world-leading rehabilitation research centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute is revolutionizing rehabilitation by helping people overcome the challenges of disabling injury, illness or age related health conditions to live active, healthier, more independent lives. It integrates innovative patient care, ground breaking research and diverse education to build healthier communities and advance the role of rehabilitation in the health system. Toronto Rehab, along with Toronto General and Toronto Western Hospitals, the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and The Michener Institute for Education at UHN is a member of the University Health Network and is affiliated with the University of Toronto. www.uhn.ca.

Toronto Rehab Foundation raises funds for Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. www.torontorehabfoundation.com.

Urging Canadians to get tough on diabetes

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Sun Life Financial commitment to diabetes totals more than $17 million

Sun Life Financial Inc. (TSX: SLF) (NYSE: SLF) is proud to be teaming up with the Canadian Football League (CFL) in the fight against diabetes. This unique collaboration, now in its fourth year, encourages Canadians to take a type 2 diabetes online risk test at www.sunlifeagainstdiabetes.ca, reminding Canadians that knowing their risk level is simple yet vital.

"We are excited to join forces with the CFL to encourage football fans and Canadians to take charge of their health and understand their type 2 diabetes risk," said Paul Joliat, Assistant Vice-President, Philanthropy & Sponsorships, Sun Life Financial. "Currently, one in three Canadians is affected by diabetes or prediabetes. The good news is that 90% of those impacted by the disease have type 2 diabetes which can be delayed and/or prevented with healthy eating, exercise, and of course, identifying your risk."

This year, Sun Life and the CFL are launching a multi-media campaign to engage fans through tweets, photos and videos to raise awareness for diabetes and its related complications. Through healthy eating and exercise tips, CFL players from each of the nine teams will be helping to motivate fans to take charge of their health, learn their type 2 diabetes risk and take the necessary action to prevent and/or delay its onset.

"We are thrilled to team up with Sun Life in their efforts to raise awareness for diabetes prevention," said CFL Commissioner, Jeffrey L. Orridge. "We hope to inspire our fans to be leaders in the fight against the disease and go online to take the test."

As part of an overall diabetes awareness campaign, Sun Life is also working alongside the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) throughout October and November to encourage Canadians to get screened and potentially prevent new cases of type 2 diabetes. Since announcing support of the cause in late 2012, Sun Life has proudly committed more than $17 million in support of diabetes awareness, prevention, care and research initiatives.

Canadians are urged to get involved. Visit www.sunlifeagainstdiabetes.ca to take the type 2 diabetes online risk test or visit www.cfl.ca/sunlife for more information and to watch the player videos.