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Links to further information:
http://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-topics/diabetes/

Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood. Over time, this can cause damage to many parts of the body. Diabetes is common - about 270,000 people in New Zealand have diabetes and rising rapidly as more of us are getting fatter. The main types of diabetes are:

1. Type 1 diabetes - the pancreas stops producing insulin. Onset is usually in childhood and unrelated to body weight.
2. Type 2 diabetes - most common. Main risk factors are being overweight or obese, genes and ethnicity. The insulin produced is not working effectively in transporting glucose from the blood to the body's cells. Onset in adulthood or occasionally teenage years.
3. Gestational Diabetes - diabetes only during pregnancy, however these women are at higher risk of developing diabetes later on.

Key Points:

1. Diabetes is common and many do not know they have it. Check with your nurse or doctor about whether you need a screening test.
2. 80% of all Type 2 diabetes is preventable if we keep to a healthy body weight, eat healthier foods and keep physically active.
3. Early treatment is important to reduce damage to your eyes, kidneys, heart, feet and brain. Know what your HbA1c, blood pressure and cholesterol are.
4. Attend a Diabetes self-management course and learn as much as you can
5. See your doctor/nurse every 3 months or more and make sure you go every year for a free “Diabetes Get Checked” visit.

Am I at risk of diabetes?

If you have any of the following risk factors

1. You are overweight for your height
2. A family member has diabetes
3. You are Maori, Pacific or Asian and aged 35 or over
4. OR are aged 45 or over

You should check with your doctor or nurse if you need a screening test for diabetes. Take a quick quiz

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A Healthy Meal

Healthy Plate A4 Poster

Diabetes Recipes

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