Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
28 May 2014 08:55
Over one in 20 people who completed a questionnaire on Type 2 diabetes risk already had the condition
More than one in 20 people are living with Type 2 diabetes without realising it, research reveals.
A survey of 1,000 Britons by Diabetes UK found that 6% had no idea they were suffering from the lifelong condition.
The charity is therefore urging more people to come forward and undergo its risk assessment, which can be taken in a pharmacy, a GP surgery or via the internet, to find out whether they are unknowingly at the mercy of Type 2 diabetes.
Those who find out they have the condition don't need to let it dramatically change the way they live their lives. Medical travel insurance means sufferers can still enjoy holidaying to all four corners of the world.
There are currently 3.2 million people in the UK living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, while a further 630,000 are estimated to have Type 2 diabetes but are not yet diagnosed as having the condition.
Furthermore, it is believed that up to seven million people are at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes at some point in the future - and if trends continue at the current rate, an estimated five million people will have the condition by 2025.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to function properly, or the cells in the body don't react to insulin. Risk factors include being over the age of 40 or over the age of 25 if from a South Asian, African Caribbean, or Chinese background, having a close relative with diabetes, being overweight or having a large waist.
If left unchecked, it can lead to devastating health complications such as amputation, blindness and stroke in the most extreme cases.
Barbara Young, chief executive of Diabetes UK, says people with Type 2 diabetes need to be diagnosed as quickly as possible so they can get the education and healthcare they need to be able to live with it.
Unfortunately, at present, half of people with the condition already have signs of complications by the time they are diagnosed.
08 August 2019
Want to explore off the beaten track? Discover your new Grecian paradise in one of these secluded island locations...
[more...]
Find your favourite Greek food with our guide on how to let your taste buds explore the delicious flavours of Greece.
Ever wondered what life was like in Ancient Greece? Explore the city that many call the birthplace of Western civilisation by visiting these fantastic attractions in the legendary city of Athens.
Which Greek Island should I visit? A common question if you want to experience the beauty of Greece's many islands. Find the answer in our quick guide to ten of the best.
02 August 2019
What's the best beach resort in Portugal? Find out with our guide to some of the best seaside getaways Portugal has to offer...
Want to experience the taste of Portugal? Make sure you're hungry when you try some of these excellent foods that showcase the best of Portuguese cuisine.
Ready to explore one of Central Europe's grandest cities? Check out these must-see attractions in Hungary's beguiling capital, Budapest...
The Hungarian Grand Prix is one of the best motorsport experiences around, and here's everything you need to know if you're going this summer.
17 July 2019
Heading to Porto? Get more out of your visit and explore the best things to eat, drink and do in Portugal's second city with these great tips.
Want to experience a different side of Portugal? Check out one of these great destinations that lie a step or two away from the standard tourist trail...
08 July 2019
Want to taste the real France? Experience the best French food and drink at one of these excellent foodie festivals. Perfect for food and wine lovers everywhere!
Tired of the same old travel options? Explore the best travel experiences at one of these weird and wacky festivals from around the world.