The NHS has issued a direct call to the public, urging individuals at risk of developing a preventable form of diabetes to take decisive action for their health. This comes as health service data underscores that nine out of every ten people in England with diabetes have Type 2, a condition described as largely avoidable through lifestyle changes.
The Transformative Power of the Healthier You Programme
At the heart of this drive is the NHS Healthier You Programme, a dedicated initiative designed to support people in managing their weight and making significant, lasting lifestyle adjustments to ward off Type 2 diabetes. The programme offers a comprehensive package of support, which includes one-to-one personalised coaching, expert nutritional advice, and sustained help with maintaining physical activity.
The impact of the scheme is backed by compelling evidence. A study conducted by the University of Manchester found that participants saw their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes fall by an impressive 37%. Furthermore, those taking part lost an average of 3.3kg, demonstrating tangible benefits for overall health.
A Critical Public Health Challenge
Dr Clare Hambling, the national clinical director for Diabetes and Obesity at NHS England, emphasised the programme's importance. "This transformative NHS programme is improving the nation's health and empowering people across England to lead healthier lives, which is fantastic," she said.
Dr Hambling highlighted the severe consequences of inaction, noting that Type 2 diabetes "can increase the risk of major health problems such as heart attack, stroke, amputation, kidney failure and sight loss, as well increasing the risk of certain types of cancer." She added, "Doing nothing on this major public health challenge is not an option for the NHS, so we will continue to develop and rollout world leading initiatives such as our Healthier You Programme."
Are You Eligible for the Diabetes Prevention Programme?
The programme is aimed at anyone identified as being at risk of Type 2 diabetes. The NHS recommends a quick and simple first step: using its online 'Know Your Risk' tool. By answering a few questions, individuals can discover if they are at low, medium, high, or very high risk.
Based on the results, users will either receive further information or a letter to take to their GP to facilitate a referral onto the programme.
Health Minister Baroness Merron praised the initiative, stating: "Preventing illness before it takes hold is at the heart of our mission to build an NHS fit for the future. This programme is proof that with the right support, people can take control of their health and dramatically reduce their risk." She celebrated the milestone of nearly one million participants but affirmed a commitment to continued investment in prevention.
How to Access Support
The Diabetes Prevention Programme is available across England through all integrated care systems, delivered by five specific providers. These are partnerships between the NHS and organisations that manage health and care needs in local areas.
For those who believe they could benefit, the NHS provides a full list of providers and their contact details on its official website, enabling people to find and engage with the support available in their region.
