NHS chief in Bradford are urging men to wise-up about Type 2 diabetes.

To make sure men are aware of signs and symptoms, Bradford Beating Diabetes is running a a free men’s health event tomorrow from 10.30am to 1.30pm at Carlisle Business Centre in Manningham.

Dr Sohail Abbas, clinical lead for diabetes at Bradford City Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said Type 2 diabetes was the biggest threat to health in the country and a major health issue in Bradford.

But he said men often overlook symptoms of diabetes and put off going to the doctor until serious complications develop.

Bradford Beating Diabetes Campaign has now teamed up with Manningham Healthy Living Initiative to offer a drop-in session specifically for men.

EDITOR'S COMMENT: Why men must check for early diabetes signs

Diabetes and blood pressure checks will be on offer, along with information stands, nutrition advice and simple lifestyle changes people can make to help prevent Type 2 diabetes.

The CCGs are already working with thousands of people who have been identified as being at high risk of developing diabetes. Letters are being sent to all those people who are already at moderate or high risk, so they come to their GP practice for another blood test to check their glucose levels which are a key indicator of diabetes. Then, depending on the results, they will be offered a tailor-made package of treatment and advice.

Since the BBD campaign started, more than 22,000 people at risk of Type 2 diabetes have been seen by a healthcare assistant at their local GP practice, and more than 2,000 of those have been referred to a diabetes prevention programme.

The programmes are informal and friendly but with key messages about lifestyle changes including healthy eating and exercise – all of which will be aimed at preventing and delaying the onset of diabetes.

These lifestyle changes also reduce the risk of developing other serious conditions such as cancer, stroke and heart disease.

Dr Abbas said: “There are two popular myths about diabetes. One is that it is caused only by obesity and doesn’t affect other people, and the other is that it’s not serious because it can be managed with diet or injections.

"Neither is true: ignoring the symptoms of diabetes is very dangerous.

“Our message is that if you’re concerned about Type 2 diabetes, talk to your pharmacist or GP for healthy living advice. It’s important that everyone understands their risk and how to reduce it.”

Untreated diabetes affects many major organs, including the heart, blood vessels, nerves, eyes, kidneys and can lead to sexual dysfunction in men.

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