A new event will offer Cardiff residents the chance to learn more about living with and managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
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The Diabetes UK Cymru Health Hub launches on October 3 at Penylan Community Centre from 6.30-8pm. Representatives from the charity will be answering questions about diabetes and lifestyle in a friendly and informal environment.
Dietitian Sarah Murray will be on hand to offer advice about maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, an important aspect of managing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
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The Health Hub will also give people the chance to network with others living with the condition in their area.
Diabetes is a serious life-long health condition People with Type 1 diabetes cannot produce insulin. No one knows exactly what causes it, but it’s not to do with being overweight and it isn’t currently preventable.
People with Type 2 diabetes don’t produce enough insulin or the insulin they produce doesn’t work properly (known as insulin resistance). They might get Type 2 diabetes because of their family history, age and ethnic background puts them at increased risk. They are also more likely to get Type 2 diabetes if they are overweight.
If not managed well, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can lead to devastating complications, such as amputations, blindness, heart attack and stroke.
191,000 people in Wales have diabetes, the highest prevalence of diabetes in the UK, and a further 59,000 are believed to have Type 2 diabetes, but have not yet been diagnosed.
Rhian Liddiard, Volunteer Development Manager, Diabetes UK Cymru, said:
“Diabetes is the most devastating and fastest-growing health crisis of our time, and Wales has the highest prevalence of the condition in the whole of the UK. We want to help people to understand their condition, and offer helpful advice and information in a fun and friendly setting.
“We hope lots of people take the opportunity to come along to the Health Hub, meet the team and learn more about managing diabetes. You’ll be able to get lots of support, and above all empower yourself to make changes to safeguard your health for the future.”
