There are approximately 260,000 people in New Zealand living with diabetes.  Around 10% of these have type 1 diabetes, and 90% have type 2 diabetes.  Approximately 50 people are diagnosed with diabetes each day in New Zealand.  Alarmingly, only 1:2 people with diabetes know that they have it.

Diabetes occurs when there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood.  Over time, this can cause damage to many parts of the body if it is not well controlled.  There are three main types of diabetes:

1. Type 2 diabetes – most common.  Type 2 diabetes is mostly seen in adults, but is now appearing in children as obesity increases.  In this type, the pancreas is not working effectively.
2. Type 1 diabetes – the pancreas stops producing insulin.  Mostly starts in childhood and is not related to body weight.
3. Gestational diabetes- occurs when a pregnant woman can’t produce enough insulin and therefore has high levels of glucose in her blood.

Key Points:

1. Diabetes is common and many people do not know they have it.  Check with your nurse or doctor about 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. Pre-Diabetes – is a risk factor for developing diabetes, and can often be reversed by making the right lifestyle changes.
4. Early treatment is important to reduce damage to your eyes, kidneys, heart, feet and brain.
5. Attend a Diabetes or Pre-Diabetes information session and learn as much as you can.

What will you learn at ‘Living Well With Type 2 Diabetes’:

• The facts and myths about diabetes;
• Diabetes treatments and how to lower the risk of long-term complications;
• Understanding your numbers: glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol;
• Managing physical activity;
• Motivation and setting goals;
• Healthy eating with practical tips;
• Emotional well-being;
• What support options available and how to access them.