New figures from the National Diabetes Audit reveal an almost 20% rise in the number of people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the last year.
Statistics show that, in 2023, 3,615,330 people registered with a GP were identified as having non-diabetic hyperglycaemia — a precursor to diabetes. This is compared to 3,065,825 in 2022, totalling an increase of around a fifth (18%).
For those under the age of 40, the increase is closer to 25% during the same period; from 173,166 to 216,440.
Those with hyerpglycaemia are at an elevated risk of developing both type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease — NHS England (NHSE) spends approximately 10% of its budget, the equivalent of £10bn, on identifying and treating diabetes. Cardiovascular disease is thought to cost the NHS around £7.4bn annually.
“These figures are concerning but they show exactly why the NHS is taking radical action to stem the tide,” said NHSE CEO, Amanda Pritchard.
“Doing nothing is not an option for the NHS, so we will continue to develop services that support people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes to lead healthier lives.”
The Diabetes Prevention Programme, for example, has helped thousands stave off a type 2 diabetes diagnosis according to research.
Around £14.5m is being invested by health chiefs to help up to 140,000 people aged 18-39 get extra tailored health checks, and support with diabetes management through the Type 2 Diabetes and the Young programme.
NHSE’s Dr Clare Hambling, national clinical director for diabetes and obesity, explained: “Type 2 diabetes in people under 40 is a growing problem globally — England is no exception, meaning there is an ever-increasing challenge for the NHS — which is why we developed this world-first targeted support for these high-risk people living with diabetes.”
She added: “The initiative helps to ensure that people living with early onset type 2 diabetes receive all recommended diabetes health checks, tailored support according to their individual needs, and evidence-based management to stay well and avoid complications.”
The health service’s Type 2 Diabetes Path to Reemission Programme is set for an expansion this year too, with a national rollout expected to double its capacity.
More than 23,000 people have benefitted from the so-called ‘soups and shakes diet’ since it was first piloted by NHSE in 2020.
Image credit: iStock
