WHY DIABETES MATTERS

November is Diabetes Action Month – here’s why it’s a condition all Kiwis should care about

Diabetes matters now more than ever. Aotearoa’s rate of diabetes is among the highest in the world. More than 280,000 Kiwis have diabetes and this number is projected to increase to between 390,000 and 430,000 people by 2040. These are numbers that matter. Not just to people living with diabetes, but everyone – including the many New Zealanders at risk of diabetes, our healthcare system, and all the friends and family who provide vital support.

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes is a chronic disease where your body cannot control its blood sugar levels properly. This is either because your pancreas doesn’t make enough (or any) insulin or the body cannot make good use of the insulin it produces. There are three main types of diabetes – type 1, type 2 and gestational.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

There is a wide range of diabetes symptoms, but some of the most common are feeling more thirsty than usual, urinating often, unexplained weight loss and feeling tired or weak.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Type 1 and 2 diabetes are diagnosed by blood tests, which can be organised through your doctor. Type 1 diabetes most often occurs in childhood, while type 2 usually occurs in adulthood after the age of 30. You can find out your risk of type 2 by taking the Know Your Risk Test available on the Diabetes New Zealand website.

LIVING WELL WITH DIABETES

While there is no cure for diabetes, with good self-management and support, it’s possible to live a full life. You can stay well through a healthy diet, regular exercise, routine health checks and medication, such as tablets, non-insulin injections and/or insulin. Resources are available at diabetes.org.nz, by calling 0800 DIABETES or downloading the free app My Diabetes Journey.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Swap your work shoes for sneakers on Friday 18 November and be part of Diabetes NZ’s annual fundraiser Sneaker Friday! Getting involved is easy – donate via Givealittle and wear your street shoes to work on the Friday. See diabetesactionmonth. org.nz for more info.