The Scottish Government has said that a simple blood test for people with Type 1 diabetes enabling some patients to stop taking insulin will be rolled out.

In doing so, Scotland becomes the first country in the world to introduce this test which will be available from hospital diabetes centres from 1 November.

Aimed to improve the accuracy of diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, the routine testing of C-peptide allows doctors to work out how much insulin someone with diabetes is making themselves. If C-peptide is present in significant amounts, then it may indicate that the person does not have Type 1 diabetes and that it may be possible to stop or reduce insulin treatment.

Scottish Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “Diabetes is a clinical priority for this government and we want to ensure that everyone living with diabetes in Scotland can access safe, effective and person-centred healthcare, treatment and support.

“Type 1 diabetes is a significant health challenge right across the world. I am proud that Scotland will be the first country to introduce this blood test which has the potential to have a significant positive impact on the lives of those people living with diabetes.”

There are approximately 315,000 people living with diabetes in Scotland.