Eli Lilly has announced a five-year research partnership with U.K.-based University of Surrey to study health outcomes, focusing on the effects of treatment in people with type 2 diabetes, which affect about 95% of those with the disease.

Using real-world evidence (routine data gathered from patients undergoing diabetes treatments), Lilly and the University of Surrey will focus on developing answers to commonly asked clinical questions about the continuum of diabetes care, such as the role and timing of injectable therapy, factors impacting adherence to prescribed medicines and the pattern and rationale of therapy following diagnosis.

"Living with diabetes is a long and involved journey for patients and their caregivers," said Brad Curtis, Ph.D., principal research scientist, Lilly Diabetes medical affairs. "It's important for clinicians to understand each step of that journey so patients might have a better chance to reach optimal outcomes."

"Diabetes is a complex condition to manage, requiring each patient to be treated and supported in a variety of ways," said Professor Simon de Lusignan of the University of Surrey. "Our research uses routine data to help busy clinicians incorporate innovation into routine practice, focusing on those diseases that pose highest risk. By understanding how effectively individual care plans work we can learn more about how to improve and enhance diabetes care broadly. Our aim is to ensure that those suffering with the disease receive treatments that allow them to continue living their lives in the fullest sense, with effective support in place."

Diabetes remains one of society's most prevalent diseases. More than 387 million people worldwide have type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common, accounting for an estimated 90% to 95% of all diabetes cases. Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the body either does not properly produce, or use, the hormone insulin.