Passing the Torch at the International Diabetes Federation

At the triennial International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Congress in Paris this past August, Sir Professor George Alberti completed a distinguished 3-year term as IDF president. George’s contributions to the fight against diabetes have been many during a distinguished career spanning more than three decades. From his work pioneering the use of “low-dose” insulin in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis to his numerous insightful studies of insulin’s metabolic actions in healthy and diabetic humans, he has been a bright intellectual light. However, his scientific contributions have if anything been surpassed by his work as a “world citizen.” Whether establishing joint initiatives with the World Health Organization or participating in educational programs in Africa, Asia, South America, the near East, or elsewhere, he has been a tireless voice educating, advocating, and championing the cause for people with diabetes everywhere. The diabetes world represented at the IDF meeting expressed their collective thanks to George in Paris. The leadership of the American Diabetes Association also wants to express their individual thanks to George for his outstanding efforts. The American Diabetes Association is singularly grateful that the new president, Professor Pierre Lefebvre, brings a similar vision and energy to the IDF. We look forward to working with Professor Lefebvre over the next 3 years and wish him success and enjoyment in the important job ahead. We also offer Professor Martin Silink congratulations for his election to the office of president beginning August 2006. It is encouraging to see that the IDF leadership is in such secure hands.