| |
National Diabetes Week 10-16 July 2011
National Diabetes Week from July 10th to 16th 2011 promotes information and awareness on diabetes and this year the theme is focused on ‘Prevention of Eye Disease in Diabetes’. The 2011 National Diabetes Week’s campaign is twofold - 2 million Australians are at high risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes so know your risk by completing the AUSDRISK score brochure, as well we encourage the 1.1 million Australians who have known diabetes to have regular eye checks. Type 2 Diabetes continues to be the fastest growing chronic disease in Australia with many Australians not realizing the seriousness of developing this disease, and the ongoing health and lifestyle complications including blindness, before it is too late. Diabetic eye disease or retinopathy is a significant cause of vision loss and blindness in adult Australians. Approximately one in six people with diabetes is affected by retinopathy. The diabetes epidemic is growing by a staggering 275 new cases every day and for every person known to have Type 2 Diabetes another is yet to be diagnosed. Diabetes is increasing and it is expected to become the leading cause of disease burden in Australia by 2023.
For more information about Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes prevention programs call the Diabetes Info line on 1300 136 588.
