MEDIA RELEASE - Weighing Up The Benefits of Seeing Your GP
National Diabetes Awareness Week 10-16 July, 2011
Eastern Ranges GP Association says patients who suspect they may be ‘candidates’ for type 2 Diabetes should weigh up the benefits of seeing their local family doctor. During National Diabetes Awareness Week 2011, ERGPA is reminding the community to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes before it’s too late.
Symptoms to look out for may include:
- excessive thirst and urination
- fatigue
- irritability
- blurred vision
- tingling or numbness in the feet
Dr Barbara Inness, the Association's Chair and local GP said "GPs can inform patients about how to reduce their risk of developing Diabetes, as well as diagnosing and treating the condition".
Risk factors for type 2 Diabetes include:
- a family history of Diabetes
- high blood pressure
- abnormal cholesterol
- excess weight
Research suggests that complications from type 2 Diabetes can impact on the heart, kidneys, eyes, nervous system and circulation, yet type 2 Diabetes remains one of the most preventable chronic diseases.
"Type 2 Diabetes is commonly related to lifestyle factors, and your local GP is a good start to seek advice about diet, exercise and things that may improve your overall health", said Dr Inness.
Eastern Ranges GP Association offers GPs' patients at risk of developing type 2 Diabetes an education and lifestyle modification program called Life!. Chief Executive Officer, Kristin Michaels, says "Our Life! Program has changed lives in the Outer East, by increasing people's knowledge about their own health, and reducing their risk of developing Diabetes."
"We've run 12 courses so far this year, with great results for many local people who have learned how to change their lifestyle, and to pass those benefits on to their loved ones", said Ms Michaels.
Managing type 2 Diabetes will increasingly become a 'team effort' as Australia's new system for primary health care, through Medicare Locals, works towards delivering the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
"With GPs at the heart of care planning through Medicare Locals, people with chronic diseases will increasingly manage their conditions through lifestyle modification programs that are monitored and adjusted to achieve better health outcomes for both the individual and their families," Ms Michaels said.
CONTACT: Kristin Michaels, CEO, Ph: 9871 1000
ISSUED: 5 July 2011