Diabetes UK Northern Ireland hosts free Live Well Day at Craigavon Civic Centre

Diabetes UK Northern Ireland is hosting a free Live Well Day at Craigavon Civic Centre on Thursday 12 November from 10:00 to 13:00. Supported by the National Lottery Community Fund as part of a five-year initiative, the event provides guidance, healthcare insights, and networking opportunities for individuals managing diabetes or at risk of developing the condition.

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot use glucose properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. If unmanaged, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can cause severe complications, remaining a leading cause of preventable sight loss among working-age adults in the UK, as well as a major factor in lower limb amputation, kidney failure, and stroke.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce insulin, accounting for about 8% of cases. Though its exact cause remains unknown, it is unrelated to weight and is currently unpreventable, making it the most common form in children and young adults due to its sudden and rapid onset. Treatment requires daily insulin via injections or a pump, combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

Type 2 diabetes represents roughly 90% of all cases and happens when the body either fails to produce enough insulin or develops insulin resistance. Risk factors include family history, age, ethnic background, and being overweight. Because it develops gradually later in life, it can go undiagnosed for years. Management primarily involves lifestyle measures like a healthy diet and increased physical activity, though tablets or insulin are often necessary.

Other types of diabetes account for approximately 2% of cases, encompassing 11 forms of monogenic diabetes, cystic fibrosis-related diabetes, and conditions triggered by rare syndromes, hormonal imbalances, surgery, or specific medications such as steroids and antipsychotics.

Local statistics highlight the widespread impact of the condition across the region, with nearly 120,000 people living with diabetes across Northern Ireland, alongside 88,500 individuals with prediabetes. Specifically within the Southern Trust area, approximately 23,335 people live with diabetes, while the Craigavon GP federation area accounts for 7,998 cases of diabetes and 6,195 cases of prediabetes.

Heather Causer, Engaging Communities and Volunteer Manager at Diabetes UK Northern Ireland, emphasized the importance of meeting community needs through accessible support and connection. The event is open to residents from County Armagh and beyond, and no advance booking is required to attend.