Sussex diabetes cases rising at ‘alarming rate’

The number of people with diabetes in Sussex is rising at an ‘alarming rate’ – according to figures released by a charity.
St Richard's Hospital

Picture by Louise Adams C140028-3 Chi St Richard's Hospital ENGSUS00120140113154234St Richard's Hospital

Picture by Louise Adams C140028-3 Chi St Richard's Hospital ENGSUS00120140113154234
St Richard's Hospital Picture by Louise Adams C140028-3 Chi St Richard's Hospital ENGSUS00120140113154234

Diabetes UK said the number of people with diabetes in Sussex in 2013-2014 increased by 3,611 adults – 4.7 per cent – compared to the previous year.

Jill Steaton, Diabetes UK South East regional manager, said: “Over the last decade we have seen the number of people with diabetes rising at an alarming rate and these latest figures are a stark call to action – we must act now or face the very real danger of diabetes devastating the lives of even more people, and threatening to wreck the already over-burdened NHS.

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“There is a gaping hole when it comes to diabetes education because we know that most people newly diagnosed with diabetes are not offered a group education course.

“This is despite strong evidence that giving people the knowledge and skills to manage their diabetes effectively can reduce their long-term risk of complications.

“We must get better at offering education to people who are living with diabetes and help them to manage this serious, complex and often overwhelming condition.

“It is crucial that education is made available both at the point of diagnosis and beyond as the education needs of people already living with the condition can change over time.”

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Many cases of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented – but there is no way of preventing Type 1. With so many people now living with the condition,

Coastal West Sussex CCG saw the biggest increase, from 24,837 to 26,660 people – an increase of 7.3 percent.

Eastbourne, Hailsham and Seaford CCG recorded an increase of 292 people, from 9,269 to 9,561.

Brighton and Hove CCG recorded a 1.96 per cent increase between 2012-2013 and 2013-2014.

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Crawley CCG saw and increase of 4.8 per cent from 5,906 to 6,194.

Figures from Horsham and Mid Sussex CCG show a 3.74 per cent increase and NHS High Weald Lewes Havens CCG recorded an increase of 2.7 per cent.

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