Survey shows sufferers can have bad blood-sugar level (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Survey shows sufferers can have bad blood-sugar level

2:50am Saturday 14th November 2009 in

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by Claire Lomax Health Reporter Thousands of people in Bradford with diabetes could face a future of devastating health problems.

Today on World Diabetes Day, Diabetes UK warns that 69,979 people are risking blindness, heart disease, amputation and kidney failure.

Data from GP practices showed that a third of people older than 17 with diabetes are not achieving their recommended blood-glucose levels.

For people with diabetes, achieving agreed blood-glucose levels is the foundation of good diabetes management and reduces the risk of serious long-term complications.

In Bradford 23,500 people live with diabetes and many spend only a few hours a year with health professionals, so it is essential for them to have access to high-quality care, structured education and better psychological support to help them achieve good blood glucose levels, says the charity.

Linda Wood, Northern and Yorkshire regional manager for Diabetes UK, said: “It is absolutely appalling that one in three people with diabetes is struggling to achieve their blood glucose targets.

“Diabetes complications are estimated to cost the NHS about £1 million an hour and can have a devastating effect on people’s quality of life.

“Diabetes UK is calling for better support for people with diabetes on World Diabetes Day, to manage their diabetes.”

In Bradford doctors are piloting e-consultations to provide more convenient care for diabetes sufferers. Technology means patient records can be shared between GP and hospital doctors, meaning fewer hospital visits, fewer consultations and results available promptly through GPs. The new system means GPs have access to quick and informed advice.

Dr Shahid Ali, a Bradford GP who has taken part in the pilot scheme, said: “The e-consultation system is of huge benefit to the patient as it reduces the time they have to wait for a decision from a consultant which makes them feel much more secure about their health.”