Over 280 thousand newly diagnosed with diabetes each year

Figures from the National Diabetes Audit show that over 280,000 people receive a diagnosis of diabetes each year in the UK.
The National Diabetes Audit, which includes analysis by charity Diabetes UK, estimates that there are now 3.8 million people in the UK with diabetes and a further 18 million having prediabetes, an early but reversible form of the condition.
Whilst cases of both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are on the rise, it is type 2 diabetes, caused by insulin resistance, which is rising the most dramatically. Type 2 diabetes, which is commonly linked with being overweight or obese, represents 96% of new diagnoses.
The new figures mean that 738 people are newly diagnosed with diabetes each day, with 708 of these being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. With another 18 million having prediabetes, and therefore being on the verge of developing type 2 diabetes, it is important that people between the ages of 40 and 74 get an NHS Health Check which can assess either whether you have diabetes or your risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the short to mid term.
If current trends continue, it is estimated that 5 million people will have diabetes by 2025. People without diabetes, of any age, should be aware of the symptoms of diabetes, which include unexplained tiredness through the day, increased thirst and a frequent need to urinate. Anyone showing the symptoms of diabetes should see a doctor for a diagnosis.