IGNORANCE OF LIFE THREATENING CONDITION PUTS MORE DIABETICS AT RISK (Saffron Walden Constituency Liberal Democrats)

Saffron Walden Constituency Liberal Democrats <info@saffronwaldenlibdems.org.uk>

IGNORANCE OF LIFE THREATENING CONDITION PUTS MORE DIABETICS AT RISK

July 13, 2008 10:12 PM

Peter Wilcock Liberal Democrats in this area are calling for greater screening for diabetes after worrying new figures revealed that there has been a steady rise in the number of emergency admissions to local hospitals for a life threatening condition, which develops if diabetes remains undetected.

Peter Wilcock, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesman for Saffron Walden Constituency said that many people were not aware they were diabetic. Early detection could save lives by preventing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening form of the illness.

Figures show that in 2002 there were 43 emergency admissions to hospital for DKA in the area of West Essex Primary Care Trust (PCT). In 2006/7, this had risen to 69, a 50% increase.

The release of the figures comes after a national service framework was set up to ensure that all PCTs offer screening to those most at risk from developing diabetes. Currently, only 57% of PCTs are offering such screening.

Peter Wilcock said, "Diabetics are increasingly being put at risk, often because they don't know enough about their condition. I am aware of the condition as I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2003, and my wife also suffers from Type 1 diabetes.

"Too many people don't realise they have diabetes in the first place. We need better education to warn diabetics of the life-threatening dangers of DKA, and also a greater awareness campaign so that people can spot the symptoms of diabetes early. The government simply isn't doing enough.

"West Essex PCT must do all it can to ensure people benefit from the National Service Framework. I strongly feel that local health services should highlight the need for individuals to watch out for any symptoms of diabetes and encourage people concerned they are developing the illness to be screened. - Early detection will certainly help to save lives."