Diabetes Prevention Week Posted on 23 May 2023

Diabetes Prevention Week— 22nd to 28th May 2023

People in the Midlands are being encouraged to take vital steps to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by making some simple changes to their lifestyle ahead of Diabetes Prevention Week, which runs from 22nd to 28th May. 

The health complications of getting Type 2 diabetes can be serious and life changing – this could be loss of sight, loss of limbs, increased risk of heart disease, stroke & kidney disease.  Whilst Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable through lifestyle changes. 

More than 3.6 million adults in England have been diagnosed with diabetes; this is equal to more than 1 in 7 people. Around 90% people with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes, which can be prevented or delayed for some through being more physically active, eating healthily and managing your weight. 

Black and South Asian people have a higher risk of getting Type 2 diabetes after the age of 25, compared with those from a White background where risk increases after the age of 40.  

Anyone at high risk of developing the condition may be eligible to join their local Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, a joint initiative from NHS England, Public Health England and Diabetes UK. 

Research shows the Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme has reduced new diagnoses of Type 2 diabetes in England, saving thousands of people from the potentially serious consequences of the condition. It cuts the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by more than a third for people completing the programme.