Tackling the Diabetes Epidemic: supporting Diabetes Awareness Week 2023
- Richard Kadri-Langford
- Jun 12, 2023
- 2 min read
As Diabetes Awareness Week 2023 kicks off this week, we thought it was time to reflect on the growing impact of diabetes in the United Kingdom (UK).
In the UK alone, the prevalence of diabetes has been steadily rising over the years. According to Diabetes UK, as of 2021, 4.9 million people were living with diabetes in the UK, of which around 90% were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes [1]. Moreover, an estimated 13.6 million people were at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to lifestyle factors
Amidst the growing concern surrounding diabetes, another particularly alarming statistic highlights the urgency of addressing this health crisis.
In the UK, it is estimated that every two minutes, someone is diagnosed with diabetes (2).
This striking figure emphasises the rapid pace at which the disease is spreading and the immense impact it has on individuals, families, and healthcare systems.
Diabetes has far-reaching consequences, impacting not only the individuals living with the condition but also their families and communities. It can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision problems if left unmanaged. Furthermore, the economic burden of diabetes on the healthcare system is substantial, with an estimated cost of £10 billion per year in the UK, as stated by Diabetes UK [3].
How can I get involved in Diabetes Awareness Week?
The website of Diabetes UK offers a wealth of information and tools to get involved. Individuals can explore educational materials, download awareness posters, and even get involved in challenges and local events organised by community partners. By utilising these resources and actively engaging in activities, we can all contribute to the cause, inspire conversations, and drive positive change in diabetes awareness and support.
Diabetes Awareness Week 2023 serves as a powerful reminder of the need to prioritise diabetes prevention, early detection, and effective management strategies. By coming together as a community, we can raise awareness, educate, and support those impacted by this chronic condition. Occuity remains dedicated to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to improve the lives of individuals with diabetes and contribute to a future where the burden of this disease is significantly reduced.
The sheer scale of the healthcare challenges of Diabetes is the reason why we're supporting Diabetes Awareness Week 2023 and developing technology that can be used for the screening and monitoring of the disease that affects millions of people worldwide. To discover our novel, innovative technology click here.
We have a community of over 8,000 people with diabetes who have supported us in our mission to improve the screening and monitoring of diabetes. Why not join our diabetes community, and support us as we develop our non-invasive technology.
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