The island's diabetics now have access to a leading pharmacist in the field, writes Heather Wood.

Maria Bootle was hired by the Bermuda Diabetes Resource Centre to manage the day-to-day operation of its pharmacy, the only one on the island to specialise in the treatment of the disease and its related illnesses.

The announcement was made in coordination with the Bermuda Diabetes Association, which established the Bermuda Diabetes Resource Centre as a way to better support the community's needs.

"We are extremely excited to announce the appointment of Ms Bootle as pharmacist with the Bermuda Diabetes Resource Centre," said the Association's programme manager Sarah Burrows.

"Our focus is on managing and treating diabetes and those conditions that are associated with diabetes, and that makes the Bermuda Diabetes Resource Centre a unique facility. Ms Bootle's particular expertise is rare in Bermuda and her impressive experience is a true testament to her skill in the area of pharmacology. We think our patients clients will benefit greatly from her qualifications."

According to the latest figures, approximately 9,000 people on the island have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Affecting about 14 per cent of the population ¿ almost double that in the US ¿ it is one of the most significant health problems on the island. It is estimated just under 100 persons in Bermuda suffer from the less common, Type 1 Diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. With such persons, their bodies do not produce insulin, a hormone needed to covert sugar ¿ or glucose ¿ starches and other foods into energy. Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of the disease, recognised by high levels of sugar in the blood. It is common among people of African descent and can be managed with exercise and healthy eating.

Ms Bootle has more than 14 years of experience working in the field of diabetes. A graduate of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science, one of the world's leading pharmaceutical universities, she has since held senior pharmaceutical positions in the United States. Most notably, she was in charge of clinical trials with the National Institute of Health for Statscript Pharmacy and she worked as a nuclear pharmacist for healthcare giant Cardinal Health. She is also certified as an HIV/Aids pharmacist.

As pharmacist with the Bermuda Diabetes Resource Centre, Ms Bootle will manage all aspects of the day-to-day operation of the pharmacy including the dispensing of medications, and she will "provide one-on-one counselling and education to patients with a particular focus on the latest developments in treatment options and medication for diabetes and diabetes-related illnesses".

"I have assumed many roles as a pharmacist for 14 years and I love what I do," she stated. "I am looking forward to working closely with patients in the diabetes community, to treat their medical conditions and to offer health advice that will improve their quality of life."

The pharmacy is located in the Bermuda Diabetes Resource Centre, on the corner of Dundonald Street and Cedar Avenue. Ms Bootle will be available between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.