Dr Bryan Betty: The stigma around diabetes and early intervention

From Saturday Morning with Jack Tame · 4:02

Show by Newstalk ZB

Its Diabetes Action Month in New Zealand, with a focus on stigma, and today is also World Diabetes Day focused on early diagnosis and intervention. A survey by Diabetes New Zealand showed 80% of people living with diabetes felt they had experienced stigma or blame for having diabetes. Diabetes rates are rising – why is this a growing health challenge in New Zealand? 320,000+ New Zealanders are living with type 2 diabetes, and rates continue to rise. Māori, Pacific, and Asian communities are disproportionately affected. Diabetes costs New Zealand an estimated $3 billion annually. It can lead to heart attacks, strokes, amputations and kidney failure. We can reduce risk and delay onset through prevention, early detection and better support. Is there a stigma around diabetes? Do we blame people for developing it? A Diabetes New Zealand survey found 80% of people living with diabetes had experienced stigma or blame. People often assume type 2 diabetes is caused simply by eating too much sugar or lack of exercise. Risk is complex influenced by genetics, family history, age, ethnicity, stress, medication, and socioeconomic circumstances. Blame and shame discourage people from seeking help. We need understanding, not judgement. What should we do to prevent or reduce our risk of developing type 2 diabetes? Eat well: More vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, and fibre; fewer sugary drinks and highly processed foods. Keep active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days. Maintain a healthy weight: as little as a 5% weight loss can reduce risk and reverse diabetes. Look after yourself: Prioritise sleep, manage stress, and avoid smoking. Know your risk: Ask your GP about a blood test, especially if you have risk factors. Why is it important to intervene early with diabetes? Early detection means lifestyle changes and treatment can start sooner. Early blood glucose control reduces the risk of heart attacks, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. You can actually go into remission with early intervention of type 2 diabetes. The sooner we act, the better the chance of protecting long-term health and quality of life. Don't wait for symptoms. See your GP to get checked. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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