National Diabetes Week runs from the 10th -16th July, putting the spotlight on Australia’s battle with this disease. Diabetes is a serious, complex condition which can affect the entire body. Diabetes requires daily self-care and if complications develop, can have a significant impact on quality of life. While there is currently no cure for diabetes, you can live an enjoyable life by learning about the condition and effectively managing it. The three main types of diabetes are type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes.
Diabetes can be managed well but the potential complications are the same for type 1 and type 2 including heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, limb amputation, depression, anxiety and blindness. With 1,250 New South Wales residents set to lose a limb this year due to diabetes, Diabetes NSW urges communities to act now and visit their GP to find out how they can prevent themselves from developing diabetes or how best to manage it. This year, National Diabetes Week is the ideal time to act. “We are urging the local community to help us spread the word about
the seriousness of diabetes, and the complications – such as amputations – that are associated with it,” said Sturt Eastwood, CEO, Diabetes NSW; “There is no such thing as ‘mild’ diabetes and living a life minus a limb has serious consequences.”
Diabetes NSW educators are urging those diagnosed or undiagnosed to pay close attention to any minor cuts or flesh nicks that are slow to heal, as this could be a sign their condition is worsening or is poorly managed. Any concerned residents should visit their GP immediately to seek professional advice. For more information about diabetes and activities and events for National Diabetes Week please visit www.diabetesnsw.com.au.