More than 5,055 people in Mulgrave may be unaware they are living with type 2 diabetes or at high risk of developing the condition according to figures from Diabetes Queensland.
Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said National Diabetes Week (13 – 19 July) was an important time for residents to assess their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and, if necessary, take steps to improve their health before it is too late.
“There are already more than 1,825 people in Mulgrave living with type 2 diabetes but this figure could be significantly higher,” Mr Pitt said.
“Experts from Diabetes Queensland believe for every person diagnosed with type 2 diabetes there are nearly three people who are undiagnosed or have pre-diabetes.”
Diabetes Queensland CEO Michele Trute said people needed to understand the risks of developing type 2 diabetes and what life could be like living with the condition
“Once diagnosed with type 2 diabetes you have the condition for life,” Ms Trute said.
“If poorly managed, diabetes can result in serious health complications including nerve damage, loss of limbs and blindness – but in most cases diabetes can be prevented.”
Mr Pitt encouraged people to spend five minutes doing a free online assessment at Diabetes Queensland’s website to understand their risk of developing the condition.
“People need to be aware of the risk factors so they can do what they can to turn diabetes around,” Mr Pitt said.
“In some cases reducing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes is as easy as taking the dog for a walk or making sure you’re eating your recommended five serves of vegetables and two serves of fruit each day.”
People can take the Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment at www.diabetesqld.org.au
The Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment Tool (AUSDRISK) has been developed by the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute for the Australian, State and Territory Governments to help people determine their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
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