Type 2 Diabetes
Did you know that of all the West Australians diagnosed with Diabetes, 85% have Type 2 Diabetes?
(Source: National Diabetes Services Scheme (2009), www.ndss.com.au) Even though Type 2 Diabetes is on the increase in Australia, it is also one of the easiest chronic diseases to prevent as it is lifestyle-related in most cases.
In Type 2 Diabetes, the body does produce insulin but the insulin is ineffective or there is not enough insulin, or both. It accounts for approximately 85% of people with diabetes. While this type of diabetes is usually seen in adults, it is now being seen more and more in teenagers and children.
Type 2 Diabetes is managed by regular physical activity, a healthy eating plan and maintaining a “healthy waist”. Carrying more body fat (especially around the abdominal area) makes insulin less efficient at controlling blood glucose levels. This is often referred to as insulin resistance.
Warning signs for Type 2 Diabetes can include excessive thirst, frequent urination, feeling tired and lethargic, slow-healing wounds, itching and skin infections, blurred vision and mood swings. The complications from Type 2 Diabetes can affect eyesight, result in the loss of limbs, and lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Research has shown Type 2 Diabetes to be progressive, that is, it can get harder to control your blood glucose levels. Therefore tablets and insulin may be required to manage Type 2 Diabetes later on. That’s why it’s so important to get regular health checks and pick up the warning signs early, so you can prevent the disease getting worse and therefore harder to treat. Perth Primary Care Network has an innovative program called Healthy Directions especially for people at risk of or with Type 2 Diabetes.
There are four health programs which can help you prevent the full onset of Type 2 Diabetes, or help you manage your condition better. You must talk to your GP first to get a referral to the Healthy Directions program (except for the Living Well courses - you can self-refer to this program, just contact one of the Healthy Directions Team Members). Check out the Healthy Directions page on our website for more information.
Ask your GP for more information about diabetes, or call Diabetes WA Information and Advice Line 1300 136 588; visit Diabetes WA http://diabeteswa.com.au/Default.aspx or Diabetes Australia www.diabetesaustralia.com.au (Source: Diabetes WA 2006, http://diabeteswa.com.au/Default.aspx)
