Dealing with diabetes

The latest research reveals diabetes levels are soaring. Follow our tips to cut your risk of developing the disease

The rising rates of diabetes

The facts are startling: more than two million people in the UK have been diagnosed with diabetes - and this number predicted to double by the year 2010. According to leading charity Diabetes UK it is likely that a further one million people have the condition but don't realise it. Figures recently published by the Department of Health also predict that more than 12 million adults and one million children in the UK will be obese by 2010.

Although it may not yet be possible to scientifically 'prove' a clear link between diabetes and obesity, Diabetes UK agree that being very overweight is a 'risk factor' and reports that a staggering 80 per cent of people with Type 2 diabetes are overweight at the time they are diagnosed.

There may be no tried and tested way to prevent diabetes, but making healthy lifestyle changes now could mean you manage to stave off the disease for longer - or avoid it altogether.

Of course, not everyone who is diagnosed with diabetes is overweight, but given so many people with diabetes are overweight at the time of diagnosis, tackling weight has to be a commonsense preventive strategy.

Research shows that even modest weight loss - between five and 10 per cent - will improve cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.

Diabetes can be a killer and a risk factor for heart disease, strokes and numerous unpleasant complications including eye and kidney disorders and poor circulation, which an lead to ulcers and even amputations. So if you can prevent it by keeping your weight in check why take the chance?

Being very overweight is a risk factor for diabetes and a staggering 80 per cent of people with Type 2 diabetes are overweight at the time they are diagnosed