Ayrshire diabetes rate tops national average

Jul 18 2008

THE number of people suffering from type two diabetes in Ayrshire is higher than the national average.

Almost 12,500 people have been diagnosed with the disease in the area and Ayr MSP John Scott insists that more must be done to improve the prognosis for the future.

The concerned MSP said: “Certainly there seems to be a particular issue here in Ayrshire where the prevalence of diabetes is higher than the national average.

“According to the most recent available Scottish Diabetes survey, more than 2250 people are recorded as having type one diabetes and nearly 12,500 having type two diabetes.

“Obesity is the single most important preventable predictor of type two diabetes, although smoking, lack of exercise, poor diet and excessive alcohol consumption are all associated with increased risk of diabetes.”

Mr Scott spoke out after official figures showed an 18 per cent increase in the number of people contracting the condition across Scotland.

He added: “More people are aware of the risk factors, but I believe that more needs to be done to promote physical activity and access to such activities in order to deal with rising obesity levels and therefore the risk of diabetes.

“More PE in schools, more promotion of walking and cycling and better labelling on food and drink to help consumers make healthy and informed choices all have a part to play in tackling the problems of both obesity and diabetes.

“A greater focus on these areas is needed in order to halt the rise in this very serious condition.”