One in five UK adults affected by diabetes or pre-diabetes in a ‘hidden health crisis’
New data released by Diabetes UK has uncovered a concerning statistic – one in five adults in the UK are currently grappling with either diabetes or pre-diabetes, marking a significant rise in diagnoses. The charity has sounded the alarm on what they are now calling a “hidden health crisis” and is urgently calling on the UK government to step in and take action to address the situation.
The figures reveal that there has been a notable increase in the number of diagnosed diabetes cases, which now stands at 4.6 million, up from 4.4 million last year. Among those affected, around eight per cent have type 1 diabetes, a condition where the body does not produce enough insulin. The majority, approximately 90 per cent, have type 2 diabetes, where the body struggles to properly utilize insulin. Only two per cent are linked to rarer forms of the condition.
Alarmingly, an estimated 1.3 million individuals are living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, adding to the urgency of the situation. Diabetes UK is stressing the importance of providing better care for those affected, especially as more and more people are developing pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes at younger ages.
The charity has also highlighted the growing concern of non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, or pre-diabetes, affecting around 6.3 million people. This condition can lead to higher than normal blood sugar levels and if left untreated, can progress to type 2 diabetes.
In light of these concerning statistics, Diabetes UK has penned an open letter to Sir Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, urging the government to prioritize identifying undiagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes in the upcoming 10-Year Health Plan. The charity is advocating for improved NHS Health Checks and increased investment in prevention programs like the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, which focuses on promoting lifestyle changes for individuals at risk.
Diabetes UK’s chief executive, Colette Marshall, emphasized the need for swift action, stating, “With more people developing pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes at a younger age, it’s also critical that much more is done to find the missing millions who either have type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes but are completely unaware of it.”
In conclusion, the rise in diabetes and pre-diabetes cases is a cause for concern and highlights the urgent need for better care, early diagnosis, and prevention strategies to address this growing health crisis in the UK. It is imperative that individuals remain vigilant about their health, seek medical advice if experiencing symptoms, and adopt healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate the risk of developing diabetes.