MSP for the South of Scotland Emma Harper has highlighted the importance of testing for Type 2 Diabetes as we approach the end of Diabetes Week.
Ms Harper – who was a nurse educator before being elected as a member of Scottish Parliament – believes that it is important that people are assessed for Type 2 Diabetes, and educated about early signs and symptoms that could lead to a diagnosis.
Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed when blood sugar (blood glucose) levels are above normal and may mean that the body is not producing enough insulin or the insulin is not working properly.
Ms Harper – a member of the Scottish Parliament’s cross party group on diabetes – said:
“I would like to highlight the importance for screening people for Type 2 Diabetes. There are 3.5 million people diagnosed in the UK and a further 549,000 who have the condition but don’t yet know it. It is a common life-long health condition, and early diagnosis and optimal control of blood sugar levels can prevent complications.
“Diabetes UK says that 11.5 million people are at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Around 58 per cent of cases of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight, eating well and being active. Therefore, prevention is key.
“I am a member of the cross party group on Diabetes in the Scottish Parliament where expert medical practitioners, as well as expert patients, meet to agree best ways to support people with both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. I have Type 1 Diabetes myself and use an insulin pump. I understand a lot about Diabetes care and the need to raise awareness for those who are at risk.”
Diabetes UK set up an information hub in Dumfries Town Centre on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th of June. The purpose was to meet the public, raise awareness of Type 2 Diabetes during Diabetes Week and risk assess members of the public who stopped by.
Ms Harper continued
“A member of my office team went along to the hub and was risk assessed for Diabetes. It takes only a short amount of time to have such an important assessment done and no needles are involved. I would like to commend Diabetes UK on the work they have done, and the work they continue to do to raise awareness and provide information to the public.”
