With recent figures showing that the number of people in Birmingham with diabetes is on the increase, medic Dr Srikanth Bellary urges locals to look at how they can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the condition which has subtle, barely noticeable symptoms.

The figures, released by charity Diabetes UK, show the number of people with diabetes in Birmingham has increased by ten per cent in the past three years.

The number of people living with diabetes in the UK has also tipped the four million mark for the first time.

Dr Bellary, clinical director of diabetes and endocrinology at Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Diabetes Type 2 has plenty of early symptoms but they are often subtle enough that you might not notice.  The condition can be easily managed through regular medical treatment and looking at making diet and lifestyle changes.  But someone with diabetes may feel well so may not necessarily seek medical advice or prioritise managing their condition.  This is why it is so important for us to work with the community to educate and advise on how diabetes can be prevented and kept under control.”

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes, such as feeling very thirsty and very tired and needing to urinate more often. However these symptoms may take a while to develop. One easy way to know if you are at increased risk of diabetes is to take a simple online test. You can do this by going on to the Diabetes UK website www.diabetes.org.uk and click on the link: are you at risk?’ Alternatively, if you suspect you have the condition, you should visit your GP as soon as possible.

For further information or to arrange a media interview with Dr Sri Bellary, clinical director for diabetes and endocrinology, contact Nikki Boileau, communications department on 0121 424 1668.