Millions are at risk from undiagnosed diabetes
- Published: 05 August 2008 14:17
- Author: Alice Coubrough
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- Last Updated: 05 August 2008 14:17
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Diabetes UK has warned that over half a million people in the UK may have type 2 diabetes and be unaware of it.
The charity has launched an advertising campaign called 'Measure Up'. Bill boards and posters will be used across the country this summer to raise awareness of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Diabetes UK is encouraging anyone with at least 2 risk factors, such as being overweight, to go to their doctor for a test.
Douglas Smallwood, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: 'Some people can go undiagnosed for up to 12 years and around half of people with type 2 diabetes are already showing signs of complications when they are diagnosed, due to their diagnosis being later than it should be.
'This is a tragedy as diabetes is a manageable condition and many people live full and healthy lives. The sooner people are diagnosed, the sooner they can start treating their condition and taking control of their lives,' he said.
