A COMMUNITY forum will be held in Mount Gambier on Tuesday to raise awareness about the “biggest challenge” confronting Australia’s healthcare system.
Diabetes Australia refers to diabetes as the “epidemic of the 21st century” with a sharp increase in diagnoses over the past two decades.
Next week, a group of healthcare professionals and guest speaker will present a free forum at City Hall to raise awareness about the disease in the community.
Country Health Connect diabetes nurse practitioner Barbie Sawyer said with World Diabetes Day falling in November, it was time to remind people of the dangers of undiagnosed diabetes.
“We have seen an increase in obesity across the country and in the South East so it is imperative we work to get things under control,” she said.
“This time of year we are coming into summer, people are thinking about getting out and being active but sometimes do not have the motivation to do so.
“I think raising that awareness of what the impacts can be on someone’s health will get people wanting to lead a happier and healthier life.”
Current evidence shows Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, but Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in up to 58pc of cases by maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active and following a healthy eating plan.
Together with Country Health Connect, the Health Advisory Council (HAC) will host the event to provide up to date information regarding the chronic disease, highlighting ways in which the community can check risk factors and if required improve lifestyle.
HAC presiding member Maureen Klintberg said 2017 SA Health statistics revealed around one in 10 people over age 18 in South Australia had been diagnosed with diabetes.
“Nationally 280 Australians develop diabetes every day,” she said.
“Other states have taken up the challenge to help lower the incidence by introducing preventative programs on a statewide basis.
“I have discussed with Diabetes SA the need for such preventative programs in our region and SA.
“Our forum will focus on taking the time to check your own risk of diabetes to ensure the community has a basic understanding of the common symptoms of diabetes and the difference between the types of diabetes.”
Local health providers, Diabetes SA representatives and visiting endocrinologist Dr Steve Stranks will provide up to date information regarding all aspects of diabetes.
The free event will take place at City Hall on Tuesday from 6.30pm.
