The Isle of Wight’s NHS Trust has been recognised for having a significant impact on body weight and waist circumference among patients with diabetes in the UK.
The organisatio, which competed against 72 others trusts and health centres in the UK, scooped a second place award for its results in improving the health of diabetes patients.
The organisation X-PERT Health, which provides structured education to those at risk of diabetes or who have already been diagnosed with the condition, presented the trophy.
A diabetes centre, based at St Mary’s Hospital, has been providing the X-PERT insulin self-management programme which educates people about their lifestyle choices and how to make healthy choices to control their weight.
Speaking to the Isle of Wight County Press, Liz Whittingstall, lead specialist nurse in diabetes at the trust, said: “This programme is suitable whether you have been recently diagnosed or have had diabetes for 20 years or more.
“Previously we have found that people will eat for their insulin but once they realise that they don’t have to do this, but instead, can inject for what they are eating, then this offers a great deal of flexibility and will prevent erratic readings and unnecessary weight gain.”
Sugar consumption awareness campaign
Meanwhile, a sugar consumption awareness campaign has been launched on the island.
An online survey launched by the Isle of Wight Council Public Health team asks questions about sugar and diet, with the aim to make people more aware of how much sugar they may be consuming in the food they and their children eat.
Organisers say that on the Island, a third of ten and 11-year-old children are overweight or obese, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, which is why the council is attempting to tackle the issue.
Dr Ben Browne, a GP working for Public Health, said: “As a GP I regularly see people suffering from long term conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease which can develop as a result of weight gain and obesity.
“These conditions can result in serious medical complications and shorter life expectancy. While these conditions usually appear in adults, they are often related to poorer health during childhood.”
Participation is available until December 9 and those who are interested can take part here.
Picture: Island Echo

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