The prevalence of diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes, is rising globally, and is likely to increase the economic burden on healthcare systems, largely due to the direct costs associated with diabetic complications. According to the results of a modelling study presented at the 63rd Annual Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association [New Orleans, US; Jun 2003], preventing diabetes-related complications by improving glycaemic control"will reduce the financial burden of diabetes over time".1A second study presented at the meeting suggests that, based on available evidence, there is an association between improved glycaemic control and better economic outcomes, as well as improvements in specific QOL domains.2