[The Aide to Juvenile Diabetes Association: its role in the management and education of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes].

"L'Aide aux Jeunes diabétiques" (AJD) is an association which strives to help insulin-dependent patients assume responsibility for the management of their disease and lead normal lives. As in all chronic diseases, self-care concerning management is essential in diabetes mellitus and requires patient education which is an integral part of the therapeutic program. AJD organizes three types of interventions. 1) Stays in special summer camps provide children, teenagers and young adults with the opportunity for receiving education in a recreational setting conducive to acquisition of knowledge and behaviors required for the management of their disease. Each year, over 1,000 children stay in these camps. Furthermore, vacation camps provide physicians and nurses with unique opportunities for gaining proficiency in the monitoring and treatment of diabetes mellitus. 2) Continuing education through a news bulletin and information meetings improves compliance to treatment. 3) Social and scientific interventions directly involve AJD members and provide them with regular information. In conclusion, AJD plays a central role in the management of type I diabetes mellitus in France.