Number of people at risk from diabetes in Northern Ireland increases to 73,500

The number of people at risk from diabetes in Northern Ireland has reached 73,500 – an increase of 11.4% in the last year.

Prediabetes is when a person’s blood sugars are higher than usual, but have not yet reached the threshold for type 2 diabetes.

Department of Health figures also show those diagnosed with diabetes have also more than doubled in nearly 20 years, with cases increasing from 112,000 to almost 115,000 in the last 12 months.

Roxanne Small is Diabetes UK Northern Ireland interim national director.

“These new figures are significant in showing us that nearly 200,000 people are living with, or at risk of diabetes in Northern Ireland,” she said.

“In our work, we see first-hand how it is an incredibly tough and relentless condition that can have a huge impact on a person’s life – therefore, it is vitally important that people are aware of the resources and support available to help manage their health and wellbeing.”

Reporting on prediabetes in Northern Ireland was only introduced last year, but Ms Small said the increase already shown was “considerable”.

“We strongly believe that greater awareness and reporting across the region have played a strong role in this rise.

“Prediabetes has been a real topic of conversation when speaking with members of the public as they are keen to understand more about it and how they may be able to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.”

The charity says it is unlikely for those with prediabetes to experience any of the traditional symptoms such as the four Ts – Toilet, Thirsty, Tired, Thinner.

Those with concerns are asked to contact their GP for a blood test, which most commonly includes checking average blood glucose levels (HbA1c) over the last two to three months.

“We understand that for some people it may feel that a prediabetes diagnosis means that type 2 diabetes is certain, however, this is not always the case,” Ms Small said.

“While you may be at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, many people can reduce their risk, and it may be possible to prevent or delay the condition from developing.

“For anyone with concerns, we really encourage you to contact your healthcare team and reach out to our team for local support.

“Our website also has a free Know Your Risk tool that can tell you more about your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.”

Further information on support offered by Diabetes UK Northern Ireland is available at www.diabetes.org.uk/NorthernIreland or by calling a helpline on weekdays between 9am to 6pm on 345 123 2399.