REDDITCH doctors are backing Diabetes Prevention Week this week and encouraging those in danger of developing Type 2 diabetes to act now to cut the risk.
One of the main aims is raising awareness of the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, which offers support to patients to help them build on their own motivation to make realistic changes to their lives, including what they eat and how active they are.
Access to the programme is via referral from a GP, for anyone who has had a blood test in the last 12 months showing they are at risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Patients can also request a referral from their GP, if they’ve not yet been offered the programme, but know they’re at risk.
Redditch is home to a highly successful diabetes programme, based in the old Smallwood Hospital in Church Green West.
In Worcestershire, there has already been more than 2,000 referrals, 64 groups have been set up across the county and 97 per cent of patients, who have accessed the programme have rated their experience as good or very good.
Dr Carl Ellson, Strategic Clinical Lead for the three Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: “We’re very pleased that thousands of people are already well on their way to improving their health and wellbeing thanks to this programme.
“Whether it’s improving someone’s diet or getting them to become more active, this programme offers the help and support needed to make important changes to their lives.”
If you are worried about any symptoms or if you feel you’re at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, speak to your GP or Practice Nurse.
In Worcestershire, the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, is provided by ICS Health and Wellbeing in partnership with the three Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Groups.
To find out more about the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention programme, visit www.preventing-diabetes.co.uk
