Diabetes checks

Diabetes sufferers are urged to have regular check-ups with their doctors and practice nurses as part of diabetes week this week.

Primary health care director for the Counties Manukau Health Board Allan Moffit says patients should also talk to health professionals about their risk of developing the disease.

Dr Moffit says about 80 percent of type two diabetes cases are preventable and all people with diabetes can have a better quality of life with good management of the condition.

Diabetes numbers have risen to almost 30,000 in Counties Manukau which remains the hot spot for diabetes in New Zealand.

The condition is driven by high rates of obesity and can often be prevented by lifestyle changes such as eating less fat, more fruit and vegetables and exercising regularly.

- © Fairfax NZ News