Within the UK, Diabetes Awareness Week runs from the 12th to the 18th of June. Throughout the week, Diabetes UK is highlighting the daily experiences of those living with diabetes, celebrating their individuality and achievements. The charity is also raising awareness of fundraising events, celebrations, and innovations in medicine and technology being used to support people living with diabetes across the world. More information on Diabetes Awareness Week can be found at the charity’s website: www.diabetes.org.uk.
Diabetes currently affects more people in the UK than any other serious health condition with 4.6 million people currently diagnosed with diabetes. Of this, 8 per cent of people have type 1 diabetes, while 90 per cent live with type 2 diabetes. In addition, almost a million people are estimated to be living with undiagnosed diabetes. Diabetes UK estimates that 2.4 million people are at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes based on blood sugar levels. They note that the risk factors of type 2 diabetes are multiple and complex, but include age, family history and ethnicity.
Type 2 diabetes does not affect all ethnic groups equally. Research has found that Asian, Black African and Black Caribbean ethnic communities are two to four times more likely to have diabetes than White populations. In addition, these minority ethnic groups are more likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes at lower weights than White ethnic groups. For these reasons, people from these minority ethnic communities must be aware of the other risk factors connected to Type 2 diabetes and do their best to reduce the chances of acquiring the condition. Diabetes UK reports that “Research has consistently shown that for some people, combined lifestyle interventions – including diet, physical activity and sustained weight loss – can be effective in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes by about 50%”. Making these lifestyle changes can therefore have a marked impact on lowering an individual’s likelihood of acquiring type 2 diabetes, therefore reducing the prevalence of the condition within the UK.
A motion was submitted to the Scottish Parliament by Scottish Conservative MSP Alexander Stewart to express support for the event. It states that the Parliament:
“Believes that the week is all about creating awareness of the condition and encouraging people to share their experiences of living with diabetes… as it believes raising awareness of diabetes and what changes people can make to reduce their risk is the main aim of Diabetes UK and many other diabetes charities”.
The motion received cross-party support within Parliament, displaying that raising awareness for diabetes and improving healthcare access for those living with diabetes is an initiative which will help all areas of Scottish society. Within Scotland, around 275,000 people currently live with diabetes, representing 5 per cent of the population. However, should current trends continue, Diabetes UK estimates that the number of those with diabetes will almost double by 2035. For these reasons, Diabetes Awareness Week exists to share the experiences of those currently living with diabetes, showing the achievements possible despite the hindrances of the condition.