World Diabetes Day: Raising Awareness in Thurrock

Each year on 14th November, World Diabetes Day serves as a powerful reminder of the growing prevalence of diabetes and the urgent need for greater awareness, prevention, and management strategies. In Thurrock and across the UK, diabetes continues to be a significant health concern, affecting not only individuals but also the broader health system.

Diabetes in Thurrock and the UK: An Overview

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose). There are two main types: Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition, and Type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to lifestyle and other risk factors. Thurrock, like many areas across the UK, has seen an increase in diabetes diagnoses over recent years.

Key Diabetes Statistics in the UK:

According to Diabetes UK, 4.7 million people are currently living with diabetes in the UK.
90% of these cases are Type 2 diabetes, a largely preventable and manageable condition.
It is estimated that 13.6 million people are at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes due to factors such as obesity and inactivity.
Diabetes diagnoses have more than doubled over the past 20 years, indicating an alarming trend.

The financial burden of diabetes on the National Health Service (NHS) and social care is substantial. Managing diabetes and its complications consumes significant NHS resources and impacts care assistants working with older people and customers with complex health needs.

Financial Costs:

£10 billion: The annual cost of treating diabetes and its complications within the NHS. This equates to nearly 10% of the entire NHS budget.
£7.9 billion, almost 80% of the money the NHS spends on diabetes is on treating complications. In some hospitals over a quarter of beds are used by people with diabetes.
£6 billion: The estimated cost of managing complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and kidney failure linked to diabetes.
In 2022/23 there were 66m items prescribed for people with diabetes in England, this increased from 42.5m prescription items 10 years earlier.
Beyond the NHS, the cost extends to social care, where care assistants provide support for customers experiencing diabetes-related complications that affect their quality of life. This can include assistance with mobility, managing treatments, and monitoring blood sugar levels.

Why Is Diabetes So Prevalent?

The surge in diabetes cases is attributed to a mix of genetic, behavioural, and socio-economic factors. In Thurrock, some of the key contributors include:

Sedentary Lifestyles: The modern reliance on cars and a lack of public green spaces for exercise can limit physical activity.
Dietary Habits: High consumption of processed foods rich in sugars and unhealthy fats contributes to the risk.
Socio-economic Challenges: Limited access to health education and nutritious food options in some communities exacerbates the problem.

How We Can Make a Difference

Awareness and education on World Diabetes Day are critical in combating the rise of diabetes in Thurrock. By fostering community support and promoting healthier lifestyle choices, we can reduce the risk for many individuals.

Steps to Take:

Promote Healthy Eating: Encourage the inclusion of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins in daily diets.
Increase Physical Activity: Initiatives that support accessible sports and fitness activities for older people and younger generations can help maintain healthy weights and lower diabetes risk.
Support Early Diagnosis: Regular screenings and health checks can catch prediabetes early, allowing for timely interventions.

FAQ: Diabetes in Thurrock

Q: What is the main type of diabetes affecting people in Thurrock?
A: Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent form in Thurrock, as it is in the wider UK, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases.

Q: How does diabetes impact social care in Thurrock?
A: Diabetes management often requires ongoing support from care assistants at Caremark Thurrock to help older people and other customers manage complications such as impaired mobility and vision loss. This adds to the workload and costs in social care.

Q: What can I do to reduce my risk of developing Type 2 diabetes?
A: Maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and undergoing periodic health screenings can significantly lower your risk.

Q: Where can I find support if I have diabetes in Thurrock?
A: Local healthcare services, including general practices and community health programmes, offer resources and support for diabetes management.

Conclusion

World Diabetes Day is an essential opportunity to reflect on how diabetes affects our communities, including Thurrock. By working together, we at Caremark Thurrock can raise awareness, encourage healthier living, and support those impacted by this pervasive condition. The health and well-being of our community depend on proactive measures and collective action.