NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme

 

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Background

The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes is expected to rise dramatically over the next 30 years. Managing the condition and its complications will put unprecedented strain on the NHS. Diabetes currently costs the NHS £8.8 billion every year.

In recognition of this NHS England, in collaboration with Public Health England and Diabetes UK, have commissioned Healthier You: the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, the world’s first such national initiative.

 

Overview

Healthier You: the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is a nine-month behaviour change programme that helps those at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes significantly reduce their chances of getting the disease.

Participants receive support to change their lifestyle in a friendly and supportive group environment, facilitated by specialist staff trained in behaviour change and diabetes prevention and recruited from the local  community.

A GP may refer you to the programme based off of a recent blood test (Hba1c) or you can find your own risk and join the programme yourself (No blood test needed)

You can find out your risk via this link. Completion of this takes you to a contact form which you can fill out to get started on your journey into the programme.

 

You are at greater risk of ulcers and other foot problems if you have diabetes.

It is important that you attend your yearly check-ups and take time to regularly check your own feet. If you have concerns, contact you GP/Surgery as soon as possible.

FIND OUT MORE ON THE DIABETES WEBSITE

 

Frequently Asked Questions

​What is Diabetes?

There are two types of diabetes – type 1 which is uncommon and often starts in childhood and requires insulin injections. Type 2, which is more common usually, starts in adulthood. Diabetes is caused by a build-up of glucose in the blood stream. Type 2 diabetes occurs when there is either not enough insulin or the insulin is not working properly, which allows glucose to build up in the blood. Type 2 diabetes, is a chronic condition and can lead to major health problems such as heart disease, blindness and even limb amputations if it is not looked after well.

 

If I’m high risk, does that mean I have diabetes?

No, it does not mean you have diabetes; however, your blood test indicates that you have a high chance of getting diabetes. The good thing is that by changing certain aspects of your lifestyle you can significantly reduce your risk of getting Type 2 diabetes.

 

What can I expect from the programme?

  • To learn all about healthy eating
  • To learn about sustainable exercise plans for all activity levels
  • Help to lose weight if it's required
  • Support to bring your blood sugar back to a healthy level
  • An education on what Diabetes is and how to prevent developing the disease
  • The impact of Diabetes on the lives of those who have got it
  • Regular support from your coach
  • Peer support from other group members if you choose the group coaching option
  • One-to-one online support from your coach if you choose the digital option
  • To be part of a programme which has helped tens of thousands of people across the UK to reduce their risk of developing diabetes