Published on: 27 May 2025
Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. That’s why NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire are promoting the Healthy You Programme during Type 2 Diabetes Awareness Week (26 May-1 June). The Healthier You Diabetes Prevention Programme offers personalised coaching, with guidance on healthy eating and lifestyle management, to help reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
In all, around 200,000 people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes every year, meaning they are at higher risk of heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, foot problems, vision loss and kidney problems. Some groups at higher risk of type 2 diabetes than others. Men, people of South Asian or Black ethnicity, people who are overweight, and those with a family history of type 2 diabetes are more susceptible. Potential symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst or hunger, and notable weight changes. If you are experiencing any of these, then you should contact your GP.
The good news is that you can prevent type 2 diabetes by eating a healthy, balanced diet, by maintaining a healthy weight, and by keeping physically active. In fact, since the NHS launched its Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, new diagnoses have reduced in England. In the last year more that 4600 people across the two counties were either refered onto, or signed up for this ‘lifestyle change’ initiative. This could save thousands of people from the potentially serious consequences of type 2 diabetes.
Dr Will Taylor, Medical Director for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire says:
“While the NHS Healthier You Prevention Programme has reduced new diagnoses of type 2 diabetes in England, saving thousands of people from its potentially serious consequences, there is always more we can do. That’s why we recommend everyone take simple steps to avoid a diagnosis. You can do this by eating a balanced diet and taking regular exercise.
“I would also advise everyone to take part in a standard NHS health check. A simple blood test can identify people who may be at risk of type 2 diabetes- and other conditions in the future. If so, advice on the best preventative measures will be at hand. If you are experiencing frequent urination, excessive thirst or hunger, or notable weight changes, you should contact your GP as it could be a sign of diabetes.”
