Published on: 14 November 2025
Hundreds of thousands of people across the UK are living with some form of diabetes, and many more are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. That’s why, as part of Diabetes Awareness Week Day 2025, health leaders across Herefordshire and Worcestershire want everyone to know how to manage their risks, whether they have been diagnosed or not.
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health complications and increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems, among other things.
There are different types of diabetes, but they all relate to high blood sugar levels and the body’s ability to produce insulin. To reduce your risk of developing diabetes, or to manage the condition if you have already been diagnosed NHS HW is urging people to follow healthy living advice. Eating a balanced diet, being physically active and reducing alcohol intake can all help. If you smoke, you could take steps to cut down and eventually quit.
Children and young people with Type 1 diabetes, and their families, will be able to use the DigiBete App and website to access a wide range of awareness, education, training and support resources. But everyone can make use of the resources on the NHS website here:
Help and support for type 1 diabetes - NHS
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, since the NHS launched its Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, diagnoses have reduced in England. In the last year more that 4600 people across Herefordshire and Worcestershire were either referred onto, or signed up for the ‘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 complications from having diabetes can be serious, for most people it is possible to live well by managing the condition the support of their healthcare team. That’s why if you receive a diagnosis, it’s important make the most of the resources available to you
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, But 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 40 or over 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.”
