Tesco is urging people across the UK to check their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes after a survey revealed that over four in ten adults have never considered their risk. The research, conducted among 2,000 UK adults, found that more than six in ten (64%) have not checked their risk, despite the condition affecting millions.
Millions at increased risk
Around 6.9 million people in the UK are at increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, a serious condition that can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke and sight loss if left unmanaged. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or the insulin it makes does not work properly.
Misconceptions and barriers
The study highlighted widespread misconceptions. Among those who had not checked their risk, 27% said they did not believe they were at risk, while 24% did not know how to check. Additionally, 21% said they lacked knowledge about risk factors. Only 28% correctly identified the combination of age, ethnicity, family history, weight and other health factors that affect risk.
Separate data from CharityTracker showed that 36% of people believe eating too much sugar is the main cause of diabetes, and 37% think people develop Type 2 diabetes because of their lifestyle choices. Among those who had not checked, 14% were worried about the result, and others feared being judged about their weight or habits.
Partnership and support
Douglas Twenefour, head of clinical at Diabetes UK, said: "Around 6.9 million people in the UK are at increased risk of type 2 diabetes, but taking small steps can make a big difference. Diabetes UK's free, online Know Your Risk tool can help you understand your risk in just a few minutes, and offers advice on how to reduce it if needed. Through our partnership with Tesco, we're making it easier for people to access vital information and support in their local communities."
Tom Lye, category director for Health and Wellness at Tesco, added: "We know that taking steps to understand your health can sometimes feel daunting, which is why we want to make support as accessible as possible. Through our partnership with Diabetes UK, we’re encouraging people to use the free Know Your Risk tool to better understand their risk of type 2 diabetes. If customers have concerns or questions, our trained pharmacy colleagues are on hand in over 350 Tesco Pharmacies to offer advice and support."
With the right support, many cases of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed. Unlike Type 1, Type 2 diabetes may be managed with diet, exercise or medicines. Eight in ten respondents said they would feel comfortable speaking to a pharmacist about their risk. Tesco and Diabetes UK are promoting the free online Know Your Risk tool and encouraging customers to visit Tesco Pharmacies for advice.
