Kirklees Together

Over 12 million people in the UK are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Around 3 out of 5 cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight, eating well and being more active.

There’s nothing we can do to prevent type 1 diabetes, but the research continues.

What is diabetes?

There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Both are chronic diseases that affect the way your body regulates blood sugar or glucose. Glucose is the fuel that feeds your body’s cells, but to enter your cells it needs insulin.

The Mayor’s chosen charity

As someone living with diabetes, The Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Mumtaz Hussain, chose to support the charity, Diabetes UK, during his term of office.

“I was diagnosed with diabetes a few years ago and know that is something which many people suffer from, in fact, 1 in 15 people in the UK have the disease.

It’s a serious and often hidden condition, one which can have devastating and life-changing consequences. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference and there are cases of people with Type 2 diabetes going into remission.

Over the last 10 years, Diabetes UK have invested £66 million in diabetes research. As they continue to learn more about the disease and move closer to finding a cure.”

What are the common symptoms of diabetes?

• Going to the toilet a lot, especially at night
• Being really thirsty
• Feeling more tired than usual
• Losing weight without trying to
• Genital itching or thrush
• Cuts and wounds take longer to heal
• Blurred vision

Having some of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have diabetes. You should always contact your GP if you are concerned.

Nailing Diabetes

On World Diabetes Day, get involved and paint your nails blue! Help raise awareness and vital funds so that Diabetes UK can continue their research. For more information and how you can get involved visit Diabetes UK.