MORE than 8,000 people have been referred to a NHS diabetes prevention programme across Cheshire and Merseyside.

The free programme is available to people who are at a high risk of developing type-2 diabetes and has been set up by a partnership between NHS England, Public Health England and Diabetes UK.

It offers a personalised support to patients in a bid to reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes, this includes top tips on lifestyle choices, advice on how to lose weight through healthier eating and exercise programmes.

This is the first ever nationwide type-2 diabetes scheme and it is estimated that around 200,000 people are currently at risk of developing type-2, which can lead to serious conditions such as strokes, heart disease, limb amputation and early death.

Professor Sarah O’Brien, clinical chief accountable officer at NHS St Helens Clinical Commissioning Group and Cheshire and Merseyside Diabetes lead said: “The national Diabetes Prevention Programme has already had a significant impact on the health of communities across Cheshire and Merseyside.

“We know that many people are at high risk of pre-diabetes but are probably completely unaware of it.

"This is because the condition often develops gradually without any warning signs or symptoms; we are delighted that the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme has had so many people taking part in the programme in our region.”

Diabetes and its complications cost more than £6 billion every year to treat.

Medical director at NHS England (Cheshire and Merseyside) Dr Kieran Murphy told the Globe: “This world diabetes day we are calling on all of those who are at risk of developing diabetes to speak to their GP practice around taking part in the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.

“The theme of world diabetes day this year is family, we have evidence that taking part in the diabetes prevention programme can help the entire family become more fit and healthy.”

To check if you are at risk of type-2 diabetes visit https://riskscore.diabetes.org.uk