Media Release 3 February 2010
Latest international diabetes figures paint a grim picture
Diabetes prevalence on the increase
Lifestyle changes a necessity, not an option
Latest figures from the International Diabetes Federation show that almost 7% of the world’s adult population are currently affected by diabetes. 2010 estimates show that some 285 million people worldwide have diabetes and that the rising prevalence shows no sign of slowing down unless immediate preventative action is taken. Projections show that if left unchecked, it is likely that the number of people with diabetes will escalate to more than 435 million in 2030.
The IDF’s “Diabetes Atlas” report states that Ireland currently has over 180,000 adults in the 20-79 years age group (5.7% of the population) living with diabetes and a further 60,000 (1.9%) with pre-diabetes.
Announcing the launch of “Tea for Diabetes 2010” on RTE’s Afternoon Show today, Dr Anna Clarke, Health Promotion Manager of the Diabetes Federation of Ireland said “lifestyle intervention can significantly reduce the likelihood that people at high risk will actually go on to develop Type 2 diabetes. Knowing the risks factors for diabetes and making some simple lifestyle changes will reduce your risk level.
During the month of February, the Diabetes Federation of Ireland will be running its Tea for Diabetes (T4DI) Initiative throughout the country.
The Federation is simply asking people to invite their work colleagues and friends for a cup of tea and make them aware of diabetes and encourage them to move to a healthier lifestyle. You will receive a co-ordinators pack full of materials to help promote and run their event including a healthy eating and physical activity knowledge quiz, tips and ideas on how to have fun and raise funds plus a recipe for Apple cake.
Ms Clarke continued “T4DI is primarily a diabetes awareness initiative but we do encourage hosts to charge for their service and donate any funds raised to the Diabetes Federation of Ireland which are used to support our various community based services. In essence, we simply want to bring diabetes education to everyone’s door”.
To become a T4DI host and get your co-ordinator pack, ring the Lo-call Diabetes Helpline on 1850 909 909 or log onto www.diabetes.ie.