The EU Diabetes Working Group will be holding a lunch discussion to address the challenges faced by children with diabetes in their daily lives, and more specifically the role of physical activity and sport in the prevention and management of diabetes.

The event will offer a unique opportunity to meet and exchange views with children and successful sportspeople with diabetes. All young people have the right to participate fully in all the experiences of childhood and adolescence, regardless of whether they have a chronic disease like diabetes, wherever they live. Unfortunately, there are still many challenges with respect to diabetes and children in Europe today because of unequal access to effective care, education and healthy lifestyles. Supportive environments, facilitating and stimulating healthy lifestyles including physical activity, are key in this respect.

During the meeting, which will also be attended by representatives of diabetes associations and the European Commission, a “Call to Action” will be prepared and presented to the Commission and EU Presidency.

The lunch meeting is one of a series of activities to mark World Diabetes Day 2008 at the European Parliament. Between 18 and 20 November, a group of children with diabetes representing different EU Member States will be visiting the European Parliament. These Diabetes Youth Representatives will be joined by successful sportspeople with diabetes.