Newham has one of the highest rates of type 2 diabetes in the UK, writes Lorraine Tapper

A poster publicising Newham's Diabetes Support Club

Each year we celebrate World Diabetes Day on 14th November. This is the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, discovered insulin in 1921 in Canada. It is used to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

The main aim is to enable people to become aware of the health and financial implications of diabetes, a condition that affects people globally.

This year the theme is diabetes and wellbeing, addressing the physical, mental and social well being of people with diabetes.

Statistics for Newham are concerning. The Borough has one of the highest rates of type 2 diabetes in the UK, that is one in 14 people or 28,000 residents.

People with diabetes are more likely to suffer conditions such as heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss/blindness, foot problems, dental problems and more.

Early indicators include increased thirst, frequent need to urinate, sudden and unexpected weight loss.

Councillor Neil Wilson, Cabinet member for Health and Adult Social Care said: “We have a range of resources available in the Borough to support those who have type 1 and type 2 diabetes, including the Newham Diabetes Support Club. There is also plenty of information available on the Well Newham website.

“We know the disease can be controlled, often by people who make a few simple healthier changes in their daily lives. Those who are pre-diabetic can avoid being diagnosed with the lifelong condition. We support these individuals too, easing pressure on the NHS and within our Borough.”

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