The NHS is calling on the public to take decisive action to prevent a largely avoidable form of diabetes. NHS figures reveal that nine out of 10 people in England with diabetes suffer from Type 2, which the health service describes as ‘largely preventable’.
The NHS Healthier You Programme has been created to support patients in managing their weight and implementing substantial lifestyle modifications to ward off Type 2 diabetes. The initiative offers comprehensive assistance, including bespoke face-to-face guidance, nutritional support, and physical activity encouragement.
Manchester University research examining the programme discovered that participants’ risk of developing Type 2 diabetes dropped by 37%. Additionally, those taking part shed an average of 3.3kg in weight.
Dr Clare Hambling, National Clinical Director for Diabetes and Obesity at NHS England, commented: “This transformative NHS programme is improving the nation’s health and empowering people across England to lead healthier lives, which is fantastic. Type 2 diabetes is a growing concern with millions of people affected and, unfortunately, it can increase the risk of major health problems such as heart attack, stroke, amputation, kidney failure and sight loss, as well increasing the risk of certain types of cancer.
“Doing nothing on this major public health challenge is not an option for the NHS, so we will continue to develop and rollout world leading initiatives such as our Heathier You Programme to help people take action to prevent Type 2 diabetes.”
Who is eligible to take part in the programme?
Referral to the programme is available if you face the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. A straightforward method of determining your risk level involves using the NHS-endorsed online Know Your Risk tool.
Simply complete a brief questionnaire and discover whether you fall into the low, medium, high, or very high risk categories for Type 2 diabetes development. Based on your results, you’ll either receive additional information or obtain a letter to present to your GP for further assistance.
Health Minister Baroness Merron stated: “Preventing illness before it takes hold is at the heart of our mission to build an NHS fit for the future. This programme is proof that with the right support, people can take control of their health and dramatically reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
“Reaching nearly one million participants is a tremendous milestone, but we know there is more to do so we will continue to invest in prevention to transform our NHS.”
How to apply
The Diabetes Prevention Programme is delivered by all integrated care systems in England through five providers. These are formed from collaborations between the NHS and organisations that cater to health and care needs in specific regions across England.
If you believe you would benefit from taking part in the programme, you can find a full list of providers, as well as their contact details, here.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
