Tackling Diabetes Together
Every day, 280 people develop type 2 diabetes and this number just keeps growing.
This progressive condition is when the body becomes resistant to insulin and/or slowly loses the ability to produce enough.
Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas which helps regulate blood glucose levels in the body. When blood glucose levels are high, over time this can lead to damage to blood vessels and nerves which supply all parts of the body.
Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include age, ethnicity, family history, previous gestational diabetes in women, being overweight and a sedentary lifestyle.
It can develop slowly over months to years with no obvious symptoms for many. Others may experience classic symptoms such as thirst, frequent urination, tiredness and infections.
Like thousands of Australians, William was shocked when he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
After recovering from his cancer treatment 13 years ago, William discovered he had developed type 2 diabetes.
He thought he knew how to manage his diabetes, but his wife Doreen suggested he attend Link HC’s Healthy Living with Diabetes program just to make sure he was doing everything right.
William was blown away by the support and information provided and realised there are other things he can do to stay healthy and strong.
William now attends our PEP (Prescribed Exercise Program) and Tai Chi classes and is keen to bring this program to his regular Men’s Shed.
This six-week Healthy Living with Diabetes program teaches you how to manage type 2 diabetes through education and mutual support. It also includes half an hour of guided gentle exercises in each session.
8-14 July is National Diabetes Week. It’s aimed at raising awareness of diabetes and people who might be at risk are urged to get checked out.
Our Credentialled Diabetes Nurse Educators can help you manage your diabetes.
Our next Healthy Living with Diabetes program starts 2 August at our Glen Waverley site.
Call 1300 552 509 to book your place or visit www.linkhc.org.au
