Government must recognise the “state of crisis” we are in and take steps to tackle diabetes

A recent report by Diabetes UK has revealed Ashton, Leigh and Wigan to have higher than average numbers of diabetes sufferers.  The report concluded that the UK is currently in a state of crisis, with diabetes one of the most important health challenges of our time.

At present, 2.9 million people in the UK suffer from diabetes, with a further 7 million at high risk.  These numbers are rising rapidly and it is estimated that 5 million people will have diabetes by 2025.  The cost of this to the state is already approximately £10 billion per year – equating to 10 % of the NHS budget.

Diabetes UK revealed the shocking statistic that 80% of this spending is spent on completely avoidable complications associated with diabetes – stroke, working age blindness, lower limb amputation and kidney failure.

Lisa Nandy has backed Diabetes UK’s call for a national implementation plan for diabetes that recognises and addresses the seriousness of diabetes.  The MP for Wigan said:

“Not only are local diabetes levels higher than the national average, but it is estimated that 18% of adults with diabetes in the area have not been diagnosed. 

With the NHS already stretched within its limited resources, urgent action needs to be taken to ensure the system isn’t pushed to breaking point. Ensuring people at risk receive diabetes checks and are diagnosed early could not be more important.”