Over half of visitors to Pontypridd event at risk of Type 2 diabetes
The Know Your Risk roadshow, delivered by Diabetes UK in partnership with Tesco, found that 56 per cent of people in Pontypridd were at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Of the 171 people seen at the Know Your Risk roadshow on 15 and 16 of September, 95 were referred to their doctor for further tests and support because of their likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes UK Cymru’s Director Dai Williams said: “We are very concerned that so many people are at risk of Type 2 diabetes, particularly as there are already over 12,500 people diagnosed with the condition in Rhondda Cynon Taf. But by finding out their risk of getting Type 2 diabetes, the people who came along have taken the first step towards doing something about it. For many people, eating more healthily and getting more exercise can delay or stop them from getting Type 2 diabetes.
“Type 2 diabetes is very serious and if untreated, it can cause a host of complications including heart attacks or strokes. That’s why it’s so important to know your risk. There are changes you can make today to improve your health and even save your life.”
Diabetes UK has partnered up with Tesco to deliver a roadshow tour across the UK that aims to reach over 27,000 people with potentially life-changing information over two years.
A dietitian was also on site at the roadshow in Pontypridd to offer advice about how to achieve a healthy balanced diet, and there was an activity area with footballs and hula hoops to encourage people to get active. Anyone who was unable to attend the roadshow in Pontypridd can find out their risk of Type 2 diabetes online at diabetes.org.uk/knowyourrisk.
For more information about diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org.uk and follow news about the roadshow with the hashtag #dukroadshow on Twitter.