For now, she is no longer diabetic. Nevertheless, medical experts are elated by the results so far. After a quarter-century of failed attempts to treat diabetes with islet transplants, the Edmonton team's success has electrified researchers in the fields of diabetes and organ transplantation. The team first reported its results at a medical conference in May, and this month President Clinton announced an international study to test the new transplant technique on 40 patients at 10 hospitals. Thousands of people with diabetes have called hot lines or sent e-mail messages to inquire about getting a transplant.
Experts caution that the long-term outcome and risks of the treatment are still unknown.
At the same time, we are all aware that it is just another step toward the big challenges that we have ahead to make this a reality for all. Currently, the transplants are being tested only in people with type 1 diabetes, who produce no insulin and who account for about 1 million of the 16 million diabetics in the United States. The others, who have type 2 diabetes, produce some insulin but not enough for their bodies' needs. Some type 2 diabetics may eventually be candidates for the treatment. Because of the potential risks, children are not now being considered for such transplants.