The International Diabetes Federation (IDF), in partnership with Sanofi Global Health Unit (GHU), completed a two-day in-country training programme in Laos on 18-19 November, aimed at reinforcing diabetes care and education across the South-East Asia region.
Organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Laos Diabetes and Endocrine Association (LDEA), the Internal Medicine Association of Laos and the University of Health Sciences, the initiative reflects IDF’s ongoing commitment to strengthening national health systems and improving care for people living with diabetes.
More than 200 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses and pharmacists from the capital, Vientiane, and surrounding provinces, attended the training. The programme covered 13 structured modules on key aspects of diabetes management, followed by interactive Q&A sessions and practical case discussions. Attendees were awarded three Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.
The training was inaugurated by H.E. Dr Phayvanh Keopaseuth, Vice Minister of Health, who stressed the importance of building capacity at the frontline of care. The chair, Professor Khun Touch, Chair of the Cambodia Diabetes Association, emphasised the value of regional cooperation in tackling the diabetes challenge.
To mark World Diabetes Day, the training was followed by a national celebration at the National Capital Hospital, reinforcing the growing commitment to diabetes awareness and person-centred care in Laos.
Advancing regional competencies and global representation
This training marks a step forward in expanding accessible, context-specific diabetes education across Laos. With over 251 national diabetes associations in 158 countries and territories globally, the inclusion of LDEA as an IDF Member will further strengthen the Federation’s global representation and collective impact.
IDF remains committed to collaborating closely with national partners to build sustainable clinical competencies and improve outcomes for people living with diabetes.
