Keep a check on your health

Jul 5 2009 by Ian Robson, Sunday Sun

GOT to say I was surprised by the recent report claiming a million people with diabetes are not getting the NHS care they need.

Surprised because I have nothing but praise for the treatment received since I was diagnosed with the disease.

My GP calls me for a full check-up once a year, and a half check-up six months later.

I can chat to a doc, a nurse, a dietician, a podiatrist and an optician.

That’s five different health professionals, all doing their bit, all giving the benefit of their expertise.

The podiatrist and optician are important because the overall health of feet and eyes are important pointers to the progression of the Big D.

And I’m grateful. Really, truly, very grateful.

Thanks to the advice of the experts, I managed to treat the condition by diet-only for more years than most before going on to tablets.

Metformin, six a day, for those in the know.

Blood sugar levels are constantly monitored and advice given on lifestyle choices.

And that brings me back to the report by the NHS Information Centre.

It says some patients are missing out on nine vital checks, including cholesterol and body mass index, which can pinpoint the disease.

Those in poor parts of the country fare worse than those in well-off areas.

And those with Type 1 diabetes, usually developed in childhood, fare worse than those with Type 2 diabetes, usually associated with poor diet and lack of exercise.

My advice is this: if you think you may have diabetes see a doctor straight away and get checked out.

If you already have it, your body will sharp tell you if treatment needs to be upgraded so, again, get it checked out.

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