Eastleigh MP Mims Davies is backing a new campaign by Diabetes UK to ensure people have access to education and support after meeting a constituent with the condition.
Mims met Eastleigh diabetes campaigner Phillip Petty at the event in Westminster to discuss the issue and to support the charity’s new campaign called Taking Control.
Less than 1 per cent of people newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and just 3.8 per cent with Type 2 diabetes receive a diabetes education course.
The charity has warned that the poor delivery of diabetes education is fuelling health complications for people with the condition, and huge costs to the NHS.
Failure to manage diabetes effectively can lead to life-threatening complications such as blindness, stroke and amputations.
“Diabetes is a very serious condition that can lead to devastating complications,” said Mims.
“This is why it is crucial that all people with diabetes have access to the support and education they need to help them manage their condition well.
“This would significantly reduce their risk of health complications, resulting in a reduction in the associated costs to NHS both here in Eastleigh and across the country.
Phillip added: “I was delighted to meet with Mims as it gave me the chance to raise my concerns about how difficult it can be for people with diabetes to access diabetes education courses.”
The ‘Taking Control’ campaign is launching on Wednesday 11 November, ahead of World Diabetes Day on Saturday 14 November.