One in 15 people in the UK have diabetes, according to charity Diabetes UK.
That includes one million people who have Type 2 – but have not yet been diagnosed.
This week is Diabetes Week (12 to 18 June), which is organised by Diabetes UK. It focuses on raising awareness and how diabetes does not need those with the condition back.
There are two main types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2, and but there are also others, including gestational diabetes (which affects some women during pregnancy).
Watch the animation below to find out more about the two main types and the main symptoms.
All types of diabetes have one thing in common. Glucose (sugar) cannot reach the body’s cells properly and builds up in the blood.
In the long term, this can cause serious damage to the heart, eyes, feet and kidneys. However, people with diabetes can live well and reduce the risk of these complications with the right care and treatment.
Symptoms of diabetes include:
- Needing to urinate more often
- Being very thirsty
- Cuts are slow to heal
- Weight loss
- Feeling tired
- Blurred eyesight
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, speak to your GP.
We run a number of services in parts of Essex to help people who have been diagnosed with diabetes and support them to manage their condition. This includes advice and education programmes.
If you live in mid and south Essex, visit the Community Diabetes Service page on our website for more information.
If you live in west Essex, visit the West Essex Community Specialist Diabetes Service pages.