The newly elected Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
It is thought that the 62-year-old has developed type 1 diabetes, despite the condition more commonly being diagnosed in young children.
In the run-up to the election, the politician lost three stone without any apparent cause or intention, and so he went to see his GP. His condition was so severe, he was advised to stay under medical care, but he was determined not to miss the campaign.
During an interview with Rob McLoughlin for the forthcoming series Mr Speaker, Sir Lindsay said: “I’m on tablets, as well as having to inject insulin, but it doesn’t stop me carrying on and nothing is going to be a barrier to me.
“I’m going to cope with it. I’m going to manage it. I’m going to get through this.”
Although type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in childhood, it can develop at any time in life. Former Prime Minister Theresa May was diagnosed in her 50s.
“It’s often thought that type 1 diabetes only affects children but, while it’s less common to see someone of Sir Lindsay’s age diagnosed, it can affect a person at any time in their life. That’s why knowing the signs and symptoms of diabetes – the four Ts – can be a life-saver.
“So if you’re going to the toilet a lot, experiencing increased thirst, are more tired than usual, or losing weight without trying, you should speak to a healthcare professional.”
Chris Askew, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK, said: “Living with type 1 diabetes can be hard, but as Sir Lindsay’s experiences have shown, with the right support from your healthcare team – and careful management – people can live full and healthy lives following their diagnosis.”
Theresa May was a prime example of this, being the first Prime Minister of the UK to be elected with the condition.
