The NHS has issued a direct call to people across England who may be at risk of developing a largely preventable form of diabetes, urging them to take proactive steps through its flagship Healthier You Programme.
A Preventable Health Crisis
According to NHS data, a staggering nine out of 10 people in England with diabetes have Type 2, a condition the health service states is often avoidable through lifestyle changes. In response, the NHS Healthier You Programme, also known as the Diabetes Prevention Programme, has been established to offer structured support.
The initiative provides participants with one-to-one personalised guidance, nutritional advice, and help to maintain physical activity, all aimed at managing weight and making sustainable lifestyle improvements.
Proven Results and Expert Warnings
The effectiveness of the programme is backed by research. A study conducted by Manchester University found that participants saw their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes fall by 37%. Those involved also lost an average of 3.3kg.
Dr Clare Hambling, national clinical director for Diabetes and Obesity at NHS England, highlighted the urgency of the issue. She stated that Type 2 diabetes is a growing concern that can significantly increase the risk of serious health complications.
"It 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," Dr Hambling warned. "Doing nothing on this major public health challenge is not an option for the NHS."
How to Check Your Eligibility and Apply
Eligibility for the programme is based on an individual's risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The NHS recommends using its free online Know Your Risk tool, which involves answering a few simple questions to determine if you are at low, medium, high, or very high risk.
Based on the results, individuals will either receive further information or a letter to take to their GP for a referral. The programme is delivered across England by five providers working within integrated care systems.
Health Minister Baroness Merron praised the initiative, calling prevention "at the heart of our mission to build an NHS fit for the future." She celebrated the programme reaching nearly one million participants but emphasised that continued investment in prevention is crucial.
For those who believe they could benefit, a full list of providers and their contact details is available on the NHS website.
