30.06.11
Audit shows rising diabetes cases but fewer tests
New figures from the NHS Information Centre suggest the health service could be facing a “diabetes time bomb”.
The number of cases of diabetes, particularly Type 2, is increasing, especially in poorer parts of the country.
An audit of patients in England and Wales says 800,000 out of two million Type 1 and Type 2 patients have elevated blood sugar levels which could lead to kidney failure, limb amputation and stroke. Many of them are young or middle-aged and could need long-term hospital care soon.
The report also found nearly half of patients were not getting the appropriate checks.
Diabetes UK said the findings highlighted the need for urgent action.
NICE recommends that people with diabetes get nine tests a year of factors including their blood sugar levels, whether they are smoking, and an assessment of damage to the eyes or feet due to diabetes.
The NHS Information Centre study showed that 53% of patients with Type 2 diabetes and 32% with Type 1 received all nine tests.
The audit’s lead clinician, Dr Bob Young, consultant diabetologist and clinical lead for the National Diabetes Information Service, said: “These results ring alarm bells.
“They show that younger people make up a quarter of all those with diabetes yet have the highest risks of potentially preventable complications.
“If these risks could be reduced, much future disability and shortened life expectancy could be prevented.”
Dr Rowan Hillson, National Clinical Director for Diabetes, said there was “no excuse” for the lack of regular checks, especially for younger people.
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