Chairman' intorduciton and commentary

The purpose of this symposium was to discuss current perspectives and future treatment options in the management of type 2 diabetes. It was interesting for me to look back over my own clinical training, because, of course the whole perspective has changed dramatically since then. When I started, in 1982, type 2 diabetes was regarded as a mild disease affecting an elderly population and easily treated with diet and tablets. I encouraged patients to keep their blood glucose as well controlled as they could, but I 'backed off' when they gained weight or suffered from hypoglycaemia. I used to think my therapeutic options were limited but I did try to control blood pressure and lipids although this was somewhat inconsistent.