NICE launches new type 2 diabetes guidance

New guidance on the management of type 2 diabetes has called for patients to receive education about their condition from when they are first diagnosed.

The guidance, issued by NICE, calls on patients to help manage the condition by changing their lifestyles.

Health professionals should provide patients with information about a range of key issues including how best to keep glucose levels under control.

Key recommendations are structured education to every person and their carer around the time of diagnosis, individualised nutrition advice, and involvement of the patient when setting blood glucose targets.

Kathryn Leivesley, specialist nurse and guideline development group member said: 'Although there is no known drug to cure the condition, clinicians can provide important practical help to individuals – for example, advice on how to ensure they are getting accurate and helpful blood glucose results.

'By putting a structured education programme in place, people with the condition and their carers will have access to good information when they need it most – this will mean they feel more confident in managing their condition.'