Australians at risk of type 2 diabetes now have access to a free information and referral service helping to stem the tide of the nation's type 2 diabetes epidemic.
Diabetes Australia has launched 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes), a free national hotline and website that will support individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes to navigate health resources.
Two million Australians are living with diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes which costs our health system $9.1 billion dollars every year. Without further investment in type 2 diabetes prevention up to 3.6 million Australians could be living with diabetes by 2050.
Although genetics play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes may help to prevent or delay the onset of the condition in up to 58% of cases.
Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will help people know where they can find local support.
'One Australian is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes every 8 minutes, but unfortunately there is still a worrying lack of awareness about how serious it is and where to find information to support prevention,' Ms Cain said.
'1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) is designed to cut through the noise and give every Australian at risk of type 2 diabetes access to information and free local services in their state or territory.
'This free information and referral service is part of Diabetes Australia's commitment to reduce rates of type 2 diabetes and its impact on individuals and the health system,' she said.
