23 November 2001 News Update

SUCCESS FOR GET CHECKED DIABETES PROGRAMME

Two thirds of people at risk from diabetes in the Midland region have received their free annual check, according to recent statistics.

The Ministry of Health launched the Get Checked programme in June 2000, to provide regular monitoring of physical health, lifestyle and disease management for people with diabetes.

The ministry is also working to improve access to Maori and other at-risk groups. Forty-one Maori diabetes nurses have completed post-graduate training in diabetes care, to provide mobile services to Maori communities.

More than 110,000 New Zealanders have diabetes, and it is estimated the same number might be affected but undiagnosed.

Diabetes causes more than 1500 deaths each year, as well as complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney failure and lower limb amputations.

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