Diabetes News
Get the latest on our diabetes news in 2025
Rising Type 2 Diabetes Among Younger People in the UK
Type 2 diabetes isn’t just an “older person’s condition” anymore. It’s affecting younger people, including those under 40. Why? Fast food, sugary drinks, and too much screen time play a big role. More and more people are eating high-calorie, ultra-processed foods while moving less, leading to weight gain and higher chances of developing Type 2 diabetes. Stress and poor sleep, especially for those juggling jobs or studies, also make it harder for the body to manage blood sugar levels. Sadly, Black, South Asian, and poorer communities are hit hardest due to limited access to healthy food and healthcare.
But it’s not all bad news , change is possible. By raising awareness and making health checks more accessible, we can catch diabetes early. Schools, workplaces, and community hubs can offer fun fitness challenges, while cheaper access to fresh food can encourage healthier eating. Supporting young people’s mental well-being and addressing health inequalities will help turn things around, leading to a healthier, stronger future for all.
Menopause and Diabetes: What Women Need to Know
Menopause can be a challenging transition for women, but for those with diabetes, it adds an extra layer of complexity. Hormonal changes, especially the drop in oestrogen, can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. This fluctuation can increase insulin resistance, meaning the body is less effective at using insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels. Symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings can also impact diabetes management, making it harder for women to maintain their usual routines for exercise, healthy eating, and medication adherence. For women with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, understanding how menopause affects blood sugar can empower them to make adjustments and seek the right support.
Navigating menopause with diabetes requires a proactive approach. Women may need to review their treatment plans with healthcare professionals to ensure their medications are still effective. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a more balanced diet, prioritising sleep, and managing stress, can have a positive impact on blood sugar control. Regular health checks are essential to monitor blood glucose levels and assess cardiovascular health, as menopause increases the risk of heart disease, particularly for women with diabetes. By staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers, women can take control of their health during this life stage, ensuring a smoother transition through menopause and better long-term well-being.
The Hidden Impact of Diabetes on Mental Health — Advice for Patients
Managing diabetes isn’t just about controlling blood sugar levels. It’s also about taking care of your mental health. Living with diabetes can often feel overwhelming, and it’s common to experience feelings of stress, anxiety, or even depression. In the UK, research shows that people with diabetes are more likely to experience mental health challenges, with studies suggesting that around 1 in 3 people with diabetes may experience depression. This can make it even harder to manage your diabetes effectively, leading to a cycle where both your physical and emotional health are impacted.
At our clinic, we encourage patients to recognise the importance of mental health alongside physical health. If you are feeling stressed or anxious about your diabetes, it’s essential to talk about it — whether with your healthcare team, family, or friends. We are here to support you, and simple steps, like discussing your feelings and seeking advice, can make a big difference. If you are struggling, we can help connect you with mental health professionals or support groups where you can share experiences and receive guidance. By addressing both your diabetes and mental well-being, you can take control of your health and live a balanced, healthier life. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support both physical and emotional well-being are important in managing diabetes.
Autumn and winter COVID and Flu vaccines.
COVID-19 vaccines is currently being offered to patients eligible between September 2024 and January 2025.
Bookings on NBS available until 19th December, 2024
We have partnered with the NHS to bring the vaccination to where you are via the mobile NHS mobile and Wellbeing bus.
Want to know where we are? Use the link below for more information.
https://www.kentandmedway.icb.nhs.uk/your-health/coronavirus/health-and-wellbeing-bus
Diabetes Consults partners with Rochester Primary Care Network (PCN)
Diabetes Consults is working with Rochester Primary Care Network (PCN) to pilot a service called Making Every Contact Count (MECC) along with the covid-19 vaccinations. The aim of the service is to reach the local communities through the well-being bus across Kent and Medway. By making every contact count we focus on health checks such as Blood pressure checks, Random blood glucose checks, Body Mass Index, sign posting to services such as smoking cessation, cancer awareness and many more.
Recently we had the pleasure of having the Chief Medical Officer Kate Langford of Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB), and some members of the regional team (Helene Anderson and David Hellier) on the wellbeing bus at one of our locations.
Photos from the event
