Half of people at risk of type 2 diabetes

Diabetes UK has revealed that half of people who attended their recent ‘Know Your Risk’ Roadshow in Lisburn are at a high risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.

The charity held seven roadshows across Northern Ireland, which showed that Lisburn had the second highest risk level, just behind Newcastle and ahead of Dungannon, Londonderry, Portrush, Coleraine and Belfast, which had the lowest risk at 38%.

Of the 74 people seen at the roadshow at the end of July, 37 were referred to their doctor for further tests and support because of their likelihood of developing the condition.

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Florence Findlay White, National Care Advisor, Diabetes UK in Northern Ireland, said: “We are very concerned that so many people in Lisburn are at high risk of Type 2 diabetes, but by finding out their risk, the people of Lisburn have taken the first step towards doing something about it.

“For many people, eating more healthily and taking more exercise can delay or stop them from getting Type 2 diabetes.

“Type 2 diabetes is very serious and if untreated, it can cause a host of complications including heart attacks or strokes. That’s why it’s so important to know your risk. There are changes you can make today to improve your health and even save your life.”

A dietitian was on site at the roadshow in Lisburn to offer advice about how to achieve a healthy balanced diet, and there was an activity area with footballs and hula hoops to encourage locals to get active.

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Diabetes UK has partnered up with Tesco to deliver a roadshow tour across the UK that aims to reach over 27,000 people with potentially life-changing information over two years.

Anyone who was unable to attend the roadshow in Lisburn can find out their risk of Type 2 diabetes online at diabetes.org.uk/knowyourrisk. For more information about diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org.uk.