A new survey has revealed that just a third of Brits realise that a large waistline can lead to type 2 diabetes .
Diabetes UK, who carried out the research, said their findings were perhaps more alarming as the festive season fast approaches.
The Christmas period generally results in people over-eating and drinking, which can lead to a dramatic increase in waistline sizes’ come the New Year .
The group’s chief executive Douglas Smallwood explained: “Watching our waistlines at this time of year is vital as we all need to do our best to reduce our chances of developing this mostly preventable condition.”
“It is important to remember that around 80 per cent of people with people with type 2 diabetes are overweight at diagnosis.”
Festive indulgence can have serious health implications for those who go on to develop type 2 diabetes, according to the group. Health risks can include heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney damage and amputation .
Smallwood added: “There are up to 750,000 people in the UK who have type 2 diabetes but don’t know it.”
“The sooner type 2 diabetes is recognised and becomes well managed, the better your long-term health is protected and the lower your risk of developing complications.”

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