Story: Gary Fry
Last week, from July 8 to 15, was Diabetes Awareness Week. This year there was an emphasis on the prevention of diabetes and its complications (which can be prevented or reduced through early diagnosis and management).
There was a specific spotlight on Diabetes and a healthy heart, especially, as people with diabetes are three to four times more susceptible to cardiovascular disease.
From 2005 to 2010, there was a 30 per cent increase in diabetes in the Northern Tablelands. There are over 7500 people in the region known to have diabetes.
Armidale pharmacist Greg Hannon is one of the Patrons of the Armidale/Uralla and District Branch of the Australian Diabetes Council. He said that he has seen a clear and ongoing increase in diabetics, particularly in the lifestyle related, late onset Type 2 Diabetes.
“It is not just about diet. We are less physically active. Armidale has great services and facilities available, from personal trainers to gyms and I encourage people to take advantage of them.”
In news released during Diabetes Awareness Week, it was announced that the millions of dollars being pumped into research has produced one potentially exciting outcome. Trials are currently being conducted on a new drug that could potentially see the needle replaced by pills. For many, injections of insulin are the best method for effective blood sugar level control at present, but needle phobia is common. The commercial release of a pill replacement will be eagerly anticipated.
Diabetes is Australia’s fastest growing chronic disease, with one person diagnosed every five minutes. Diabetes is set to almost double by 2016.
Mr Hannon said that the Armidale/Uralla and District Branch of the Australian Diabetes Council does great work, in fundraising and as a peer support group. “They (financially) support young locals with Type 1 diabetes to attend special camps, which are important, educationally and in showing them that they are not alone and they can learn from other young diabetics.”
