Warning about 'diabetes timebomb'

Diabetes advice | Type 2 diabetes timebomb

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The number of people with diabetes has hit the 3 million mark for the first time, according to Diabetes UK.

The charity wants the government to help stop the 'diabetes timebomb' and fight the battle against type 2 diabetes, which is linked to obesity and poor lifestyle.

Figures from doctors show that the number of people with the illness has risen by 100,000 in just 12 months and the worry is that more children will be affected in the future.

'If we don't do something about ensuring children get their five portions of fruit and vegetables and an hour of exercise each day, we are going to see huge increases in the proportion that go on to develop type 2 diabetes,' says Christine Hancock from the Oxford Health Alliance.

'Studies have shown that changes to diet and exercise can cut cases by 58%,' said Douglas Smallwood from Diabetes UK. 'This proves we really can make a difference.'

- Read more in-depth information about type 2 diabetes

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By Rob Mansfield

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