About DAWN

The DAWN (Diabetes Attitudes Wishes and Needs) programme is a global Novo Nordisk initiative in collaboration with the International Diabetes Federation and an international expert advisory board.

Its aim is to improve the health and quality of life of people with diabetes by facilitating concrete initiatives and best practice sharing worldwide to overcome the psychosocial barriers to effective self-management.

The programme started with the first DAWN study in 2001. The study showed that diabetes care which focuses solely on medical targets is seriously flawed. More than half of people with diabetes do not enjoy good health and life quality, and the DAWN study revealed a major underlying cause: the negative effects of ignoring the psychosocial impact of diabetes on those who live with the condition every day. The DAWN Study highlighted the need for a new approach to diabetes care that looks beyond the blood glucose readings and prescribed diet and exercise regimes to the person behind the disease.

The DAWN Programme promotes concerted advocacy and practical actions to help bring about this necessary change in diabetes care worldwide. Putting the individual – rather than the disease – at the centre.

DAWN is a key part of our long-term strategy for defeating diabetes

The DAWN programme, now incorporating DAWN Youth, is a leading element of Novo Nordisk's two-fold commitment to fight diabetes and support those who live with it. By approaching people with diabetes as individuals with independent lives rather than patients with a common disease, Novo Nordisk is dedicated to gaining a full understanding of the human impact of diabetes.

Novo Nordisk's ongoing exploration of the psychosocial impact of diabetes complements our legacy of industry-leading scientific research into the condition and its management. The depth and reach of our combined diabetes knowledge places us in an every-stronger position to lead the fights against diabetes, and to change the face of diabetes care.