Reinforcing the role of early glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes

In the UK, diabetes leads to 190 amputations, 770 strokes, 590 cases of myocardial infarction and 230 cases of heart failure every single week (Diabetes UK, 2022).

Data show that more than 4.9 million people are currently living with diabetes in the UK, which is about one in every 14 people (Diabetes UK, 2022). The true number, however, is estimated to be more than 5.6 million when accounting for those who have yet to be diagnosed (Diabetes UK, 2024). About 90% of those living with the condition in the UK have type 2 diabetes and more than 3.2 million people are at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes based on blood sugar levels (Diabetes UK, 2024).

However, the risk factor profile for type 2 diabetes is complex, with genetic, social and lifestyle factors each playing a role. From age, family history and ethnicity, to income, housing, education, and diet, physical activity and living with overweight or obesity, the risk factors are multifaceted and difficult to isolate or pinpoint specifically (Diabetes UK, 2024).