In the UK more than 2.9 million individuals live with diabetes, making the condition one of the largest health challenges the UK face. In order to continue to increase awareness of early diagnosis for Type 2 diabetes, and to make sure those living with the condition receive the appropriate level of care, leading health charity Diabetes UK will collaborate with the NHS as well as other influential groups this year in 2012.
Barbara Young, Chief Executive at Diabetes UK, explained:
“We are all feeling positive about the year ahead at Diabetes UK. We will build on the successes of 2011 keeping a clear focus on the distinctive needs of people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. We will continue to ensure that everyone is familiar with our 15 healthcare essentials and receiving the right level of care.
We know that healthcare professionals are committed to delivering the 15 healthcare essentials and recognize it is crucial for people with diabetes to get the treatment they deserve. In 2012 we will be launching a major campaign to get a better deal for children with diabetes and we will focus on ensuring everyone gets good foot care to reduce the risk of devastating amputation.”
This year, Diabetes UK will continue to make sure that all individuals suffering with the condition receive the proper support vital for their wellbeing. In addition, the organization will continue to urge individuals to check they are receiving the 15 healthcare essentials. All individuals with diabetes should receive this 15 point checklist and services each year. This year, those with the condition will be encouraged to examine the list in order to make sure they receive all of their yearly checks. Those worried they have not received appropriate care will be encouraged to raise their concerns to their healthcare teams.
Both individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are at risk from complications of the condition. Diabetes UK will focus on a campaign this spring in order to make sure people with diabetes received good foot care to lower the risk of amputation.
According to a recent survey by the organization, 1 in 4 individuals in the UK with diabetes may be at risk of amputation as they did not receive a foot check in 2011. Each week, 100 amputations are conducted as a result of diabetes. Individual with the condition are up to 15 times more likely to undergo a major amputation compared to individuals without diabetes.
This year, Diabetes UK will work hard in order to ensure all those suffering with diabetes undergo vital foot and leg checks as part of their yearly healthcare examination.
In addition, the organization will be campaigning for a better deal for the estimated 29,000 children and adolescents living with the condition in the UK. At present Diabetes UK is collaborating with children and their parents to shape this campaign which is due to be launched later in the year.
During the NHS restructure, the organization continues to be dedicated to making sure diabetes is at the top of the agenda for clinical commissioning groups. Diabetes UK will continue to underline the significance for regional and national groups to engage with service providers to make sure this occurs.
Written by Grace Rattue