Shocking New Figures Of Diabetes Complications Released, UK

Main Category: Diabetes
Article Date: 16 Jun 2009 - 0:00 PDT

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New figures from the NHS Information Centre reveal a sobering tally of over 300 heart attacks, 300 strokes, 65 foot or toe amputations and 38 leg amputations among people with diabetes each week.

Due to the way hospital data is recorded, these figures may well be lower than actual numbers as occurrences in the same person are only counted once.

"Diabetes is the biggest health challenge currently facing the UK and cardiovascular disease is the most common diabetes complication," said Douglas Smallwood, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK.

"While we can't say for certain whether diabetes is the sole contributing factor behind these new figures, we do know from a wealth of previous research that there is a very strong link.

"It's important to remember, however, that people with diabetes can minimise the chances of developing these devastating complications by maintaining good blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol control, taking regular physical activity, eating a healthy balanced diet, and taking any prescribed medications."

Source
Diabetes UK