GP practices across Kirklees are encouraging patients to know their risk of developing type 2 diabetes this World Diabetes Day, 14 November 2020.
Type 2 diabetes is a potentially serious health condition that can cause long-term health problems. It can lead to sight loss, kidney failure, loss of limb, and makes people at least twice as likely to have a heart attack or stroke.
Every three minutes someone finds out they have type 2 diabetes.
GP practices are inviting patients who have had a blood test in the last two years which shows that they are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, to join the Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
Eligible patients will receive a letter between now and January informing them of the next steps.
There are around 20,000 people at risk of type 2 diabetes in Kirklees, says Dr Steve Ollerton, Chair Greater Huddersfield Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).
He added: “The Healthier You programme can help you put your health back in your hands by supporting you to make changes to your diet, get more physically active and lose weight.
“Taking action now is really important to reduce your risk.”
GP practices are initially targeting people from Black and South Asian ethnic backgrounds who are not only at higher risk of serious adverse outcomes with coronavirus but also at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Support from the NHS National Diabetes Prevention Programme is currently being provided through online group meetings, telephone calls and an app.
Dr Khalid Naeem, Chair North Kirklees CCG said: “Anyone can develop type 2 diabetes, but certain factors can increase your risk.
“This includes being overweight, over 40 years of age and your family history. Younger people from a Black or Asian minority ethnic group also have a higher risk.
“We also know that the risk of COVID-19 related in-hospital deaths are doubled by type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is found in nearly one third of people who die with COVID-19.
“So it’s important now – more than ever – to know your risk and take action.”
People interested in knowing if they are at risk of developing the condition can complete the Diabetes UK risk online tool.
Jon Scott, an Operations Manager for the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme from the local Healthier You programme said: “Research shows that by joining the programme and making positive changes to lifestyles, people can greatly improve their health and wellbeing and reduce risk.”