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Over the last decade, advances in technology and connectivity have led to the boom of Internet-based and mobile applications (Apps) which have rendered access to information easier and faster and have changed our daily lives. With 60 million people living with diabetes (PWD) in Europe and 32 million more at risk, diabetes has been a major target for software companies, with the aim to help people manage their chronic condition, and to prevent diabetes in people at risk. IDF Europe is the voice of 70 national associations, representing PWD and health professionals in 47 European countries, and a strong supporter of innovation in healthcare. Witnessing the emergence of Apps in the field of diabetes, given the general uptake of a connected lifestyle, and recognising the potential in the ability of these Apps to make an impact on the lives of PWD, IDF Europe reflected on Mobile Applications in Diabetes, examining Diabetes and new technology through psychology, motivation and behavioral change in diabetes management; the healthcare professional perspective; potential roles of diabetes-related Apps, pointing to existing evidence and important ethical issues; and finally offering recommendations on four levels: individual, healthcare professional, political and App developers.

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AIMS: Efficacious interventions for prevention of diabetes and its complications exist; however, their implementation is woefully inadequate. The purpose of this project is to qualitatively assess the early lessons learnt from implementing translational research from eleven projects supported by BRIDGES, an International Diabetes Federation program. METHODS: Semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted with 10 researchers, seeking their views on factors relating to success and barriers to implementation. Data were collected from June to September 2010 by a trained interviewer; information was recorded, transcribed and further analyzed with MAXQDA. RESULTS: Patient recruitment and retention were reported as challenges. Lack of availability of local multidisciplinary teams was highlighted as having a negative effect on the project. Grassroots and community participation were emphasized to have beneficial effects. Flexibility was recognized as a key for successful execution of the projects. Recommendations include: feedback from previous grantees, in the form of pre-submission workshops, and mentoring from experienced investigators with emphasis on the differences between traditional and translational researches. CONCLUSIONS: This evaluation underscores the main contingencies to be considered for successful implementation of translational research. It emphasizes the importance of having the three stakeholders: patients, providers, and health systems, acting together in a flexible environment within real life settings.

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