Obesity and diabetes
Over 10,000 residents of Southwark are living with a potentially life-threatening condition — but far too many of them have no idea they’ve got it. Diabetes is a chronic disease — meaning it does its damage gradually over a long period of time — but it is very serious. Diabetes can cause a heart attack, stroke or kidney failure — it can shorten your life.
The more overweight and unfit you are, the greater the risk
The most common type of diabetes is Type 2. It mainly effects adults in middle and old age. But now that more people are obese, younger people are also getting Type 2 diabetes. The more overweight and unfit you are, the greater the risk. Diabetes is also more common in certain ethnic groups. Black African, black Caribbean and south Asian people are three to five times more likely to get Type 2 diabetes than white members of the population.
Early warning signs
The early warning signs are often things you may not think twice about — but should really ring alarm bells — an increased thirst and frequent peeing, extreme tiredness, loss of weight, thrush, blurred vision. Unfortunately, many people have had diabetes for several years before they go to the doctor.
We have a high standard of diabetes care in Southwark
Diabetes is a serious condition and once you have it, you have it for life. But the good news is that we’re getting better at spotting diabetes earlier and we have a high standard of diabetes care in Southwark. With the right medication, treatment, and information and advice, people with diabetes are finding they can manage their condition and get on with their lives.
Learn more about diabetes and meet other people with the condition
It is really important to take medication you are given and to follow diet and exercie advice. According to a recent survey, one in three people don’t understand what their diabetes medications are for or how to take them, because they feel stupid asking questions. So don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or pharmacist if you aren’t sure what to do. At Southwark we have patient participation groups and expert patient programmes so you can learn more about diabetes and meet other people with the condition.
Preventing type 2 diabetes
The best way to prevent Type 2 diabetes in the first place is to manage your weight through a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise. In Southwark we are working with children in schools to help them undertstand the benefits of healthy eating and physical activity. So try learning from your children - they may know more than you think! 
“I think it’s really important to get checked out for diabetes. After I saw my GP I got the diabetes under control and I feel much better. I’ve even started eating more fruit which has helped me even more!”
Mr Franklin Obana, Dulwich
Local Services
- North Southwark Diabetes Patient Participation Group. To join call 020 7346 6444
- Peckahm Pulse Diabetes Patient Participation Group. To join call 020 7733 2231