Health service blitzes diabetes (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Health service blitzes diabetes

Doctors and nurses across Wiltshire are working hard to ensure patients with diabetes are diagnosed at the earliest possible stage.

Early detection can help to avoid complications such as loss of sight and something as simple as a change of diet can help to improve a patient's condition.

National diabetes research published yesterday highlighted that only 77 per cent of those suffering from diabetes are diagnosed as having the disease. Nearly a quarter of sufferers therefore remain unidentified.

Facilities have been set up in Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Health Authority area to help the estimated 60,000 diabetes sufferers in the region identify and manage the condition.

"If you are concerned that you might have diabetes, it is important that you get tested so that we can provide you with the appropriate care," said Ruth Hall, public health director at the Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Strategic Health Authority.

"There are clinics and drop-in centres across the region that provide this service. With the right advice, people with diabetes can lead full and independent lifestyles."