When type 1 diabetes enters the life of a family, everything changes.Not only transforms routines and medical decisions, it also removes emotions, generates questions and awakens a constant balance of balance.This is well known to Iker Marcaid, Valencian entrepreneur and founder of Zubi Group, who for three years coexists with type 1 diabetes in his closest family environment.

📍 On the occasion of the IFAC Workshop on Engineering Diabetes Technology held in Valencia, Marcaid shared his vision of the challenges and opportunities that type 1 diabetes supposes, especially from the perspective of a father who, like so many others, had to start from scratch.


🌐 Technology as an ally (when known)

As Iker comments, until diabetes does not touch closely, most do not know the tools that exist.At first everything seems complex: sensors, pumps, apps, glucose curves, alarms ... but soon discover that technology not only facilitates diabetes control, but returns freedom, safety and quality of life.

🧠 And this is not only machines.There are also advances in early detection and new medications that allow identifying type 1 diabetes even before it manifests, which opens the door to treatments that delay its appearance and make their management more bearable.


🔬 The future is already being investigated: regenerate cells and reduce loads

One of the most promising fronts that Iker stands out is that of cell therapies, which seek to regenerate the beta cells of insulin producers.Although they are still in development, their potential is enormous: they could completely change the way of treating type 1 diabetes, reducing or even eliminating the need for external insulin.

In turn, the new insulin administration systems are making life with diabetes more bearable.Less punctures, more comfort, less daily mental load.


💰 And access?Because it is not enough to exist ...

Marcaid also insists on something that many in the forum know well: technology saves, but does not always reach everyone.In many countries - and sometimes even within ours - the cost is a real barrier.That is why they defend models that make technologies accessible to all contexts, both economically and at the level of digital literacy.


🤝 Community and support: the other fundamental pillar

"Living with type 1 diabetes doesn't have to be a lonely trip."This phrase from Iker summarizes everything.Because no matter how much technology we have, without understanding, without support, without a human network ... the load is much heavier.

That is why this forum exists.That's why we write these posts.That is why we create community.Because a word, a shared experience or a time recommendation can make a difference.

📚 If you have not done so, we encourage you to give or read the book "Live with diabetes: the power of the online community".Because you will find exactly what Iker raises: real stories, shared challenges, collective solutions.And above all, the certainty that the community can be as transformative as the best technology.


💬 Did you also discover technology following a diagnosis?

What helped you the most?

Do you think that innovation comes enough to those who need it most?


We read you in the comments, as always 💙