NHS initiative could save thousands from developing type 2 diabetes – ‘Can be prevented’

Diabetes UK show how to test feet for diabetic feet sensitivity

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The Diabetes Prevention Programme identifies people most at risk of developing type two diabetes and gives them a nine-month plan to help them change their lifestyles.

As a result of the plan, it is estimated around 18,000 fewer people were diagnosed with type two diabetes between 2018 and 2019.

This marks a seven percent reduction.

As well as focussing on eating and exercise habits, the programme offers support groups and a digital service to help participants monitor their progress.

Research fellow at the University of Manchester, where the study on the programme was undertaken, Emma McManus described diabetes as a “growing problem” for the UK.

On average the NHS spends around 10 percent of its annual budget on the condition.

Of type two diabetes McManus said: “If you change your lifestyle, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes reduces.

“Our research has shown that the programme has been successful in reducing the number of new cases of diabetes.”

Senior clinical adviser at Diabetes UK Emma Elvin added: “This research adds to the evidence that many type 2 diabetes cases can be delayed or prevented with the right support and further highlights how the NHS diabetes prevention programme can be a real turning point for people at risk of type two diabetes.”

It is estimated that as well as helping people improve their health, preventing people from developing type two diabetes could save money.

The NHS currently spends £10 billion a year on diabetes and issues relating to the condition.

Furthermore, spending money on preventing people from developing type 2 diabetes could save them from developing other conditions too.

Type two diabetes is the most common form of diabetes.

Symptoms of the condition include:
• Peeing more than usual, particularly at night
• Feeling thirsty all the time
• Feeling very tired
• Losing weight without trying to
• Itching around the penis or vagina
• Repeated episodes of thrush
• Cuts or wounds taking longer to heal
• Blurred vision.

For more information about type two diabetes contact the NHS or consult with your GP.

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