Novo Nordisk to back all-diabetic sports team

Novo Nordisk has announced that it will be lending its backing to a new global sports team comprised entirely of diabetic atheletes.

Team Novo Nordisk will be made up of more than 100 cyclists, triathletes and runners who have the disease and will be spearheaded by the world's first all-diabetic pro cycling team.

The team will take part in more than 500 competitions around the world next year, with Team Novo Nordisk cyclists to take part in races such as the USA Pro Cycling Challenge and the Tour of Britain en route to a planned entry in the Tour de France.

Its aim is to raise awareness of diabetes and inspire hope among those affected by showing what can be achieved when the condition is properly managed.

Jakob Riis, senior vice-president for global marketing and medical affairs at Novo Nordisk, said: "As part of our longstanding Changing Diabetes programme, this partnership provides a tremendous opportunity to raise awareness and educate, empower and inspire people with diabetes."

Earlier this week, the company published data from a global survey to highlight the impact this disease can have on the families of sufferers worldwide.