Sweet move

Diabetes center adds jewel to 'U's crown

Although AIDS and cancer receive more public awareness, diabetes is a serious disease that affects more than 16 million Americans, according to the American Medical Association. There is no known cure for the disease, but that could change someday, thanks to partnerships such as one between University Health System and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

The University's new $6 million diabetes center is money well spent. Centering on a few of the many complications stemming from diabetes such as heart problems, vision loss and kidney failure, research produced will undoubtedly make life at least a little easier for diabetics.

Nearly 200,000 Americans pass away each year from the illness. Many of these deaths could have been prevented with proper treatment. Sadly, many cannot afford insulin, or live in areas with no medical support to treat diabetes. Regardless of whether a cure is found, simply improving the quality of life for thousands of suffering patients is a step in the right direction.

The University deserves appreciation for their effort to combat the disease. The editor of Journal of the American Medical Association described the University as "a special institution in the history of American medicine." There may be no finer way to prove this statement true than to continue to be a leader in medical innovations. Yearly $100 billion yearly is spent on treatment for diabetics.

The center's potential is considerable, and could save the life of a close friend or family member, not to mention extend the lifespan of millions of diabetics. Furthermore, numerous students at the University require treatment for diabetes. They will directly benefit from any advances in treatment. We applaud the University's initiative in promoting progress in the science of medicine.