Ethnic Minority Communities Promote Diabetes Awareness

Tue, 13 Jul 2010
South Asian, Black and Turkish community leaders in London have received training as Diabetes UK Community Champions to increase help raise awareness of Type 2 Diabetes amongst those from minority ethnic communities who are at risk of developing this condition.

Within the white community, Type 2 diabetes normally occurs 40 plus. However, South Asian and Black people can develop Type 2 diabetes at the age of 25.

Early treatment can lower the risk of developing complications like heart disease, stroke, blindness and amputations .

The diabetes awareness campaign has meant Diabetes UK working in conjunction with NHS Haringey on the Community Champions training courses, whereby individuals from minority ethnic communities, religious and community leaders and health trainers attend sessions as to what Type 2 diabetes is, those at risk, signs and symptoms, myths and facts, complications and the relevant NHS services available.

Upon qualifying, the Community Champions disseminate their knowledge about diabetes acorss their local communities by organising events, talks and healthy living days.

There are currently 33 qualified Community Champions in Haringey, keen on raising diabetes awareness at community events. Many other such training projects are planned for other parts of London.

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