The number of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in Hunter New England has reached approximately 90,000, prompting a significant push towards utilizing technology to address this growing health crisis. This development comes amid what experts are calling the “diabesity epidemic,” a term that highlights the dual challenges of diabetes and obesity.
Professor Clare Collins, a renowned nutrition and dietetics expert from the University of Newcastle, is spearheading efforts to make nutritional guidance more accessible for those affected by type 2 diabetes through telehealth services. “We’re working on a project to make nutrition and dietetics available through telehealth,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of providing evidence-based nutrition assessments and advice.
Understanding the Epidemic
Type 2 diabetes has been described as the “biggest epidemic in human history,” with an estimated one in eight people affected. Thousands more are believed to be living with the disease undiagnosed and untreated. Professor Sham Acharya of the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) highlighted the severity of the issue, noting that it is “one of the big health issues in the region.” He explained, “It adds a lot to hospitalisations and costs to society.”
To address this, a type 2 diabetes education event is scheduled at HMRI on Friday to coincide with World Diabetes Day. Hosted by the Diabetes Alliance Program Plus, the event aims to equip health professionals with the latest knowledge in diabetes management and technology. Laureate Professor Clare Collins will be among the speakers, sharing insights on how technology can transform diabetes care.
The Impact of Diabetes in Hunter New England
Diabetes-related complications are a significant concern, contributing to heart disease, kidney problems, blindness, poor mental health, and amputations. In the Hunter New England region alone, there are approximately 1,300 to 1,500 hospitalizations annually due to type 2 diabetes, alongside about 250 amputations and 550 deaths.
Professor Acharya, who serves as the clinical lead for the Diabetes Alliance, pointed out that “65 per cent of our type 2 diabetes is fuelled by the obesity problem.” He added that “another 30 to 35 per cent may be related to family history, genetic mutations, certain medications, and ageing.” He stressed the importance of addressing these risk factors, noting that “as we get older, our risk of diabetes goes up exponentially.”
Efforts to Combat the Crisis
The Diabetes Alliance Program, launched a decade ago, has been pivotal in educating patients and general practitioners on managing type 2 diabetes. New weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are seen as potential game-changers, with Professor Acharya noting that they “will make a massive difference if they are used in an appropriate setting.” However, he acknowledged that the cost of these drugs remains a challenge.
Preventative measures are also crucial. Professor Acharya advised that “everyone should try to optimise their weight as much as they can, exercise and eat as nutritiously as possible, and get checked regularly.” He highlighted that there are medications available to prevent diabetes, which should be discussed with general practitioners.
Looking Forward
Type 2 diabetes disproportionately affects disadvantaged and First Nations people in low socio-economic communities. The percentage of hospitalizations related to type 2 diabetes is “sitting at around the 20 per cent mark,” according to Professor Acharya. This underscores the need for targeted interventions and support for these communities.
As the region grapples with this escalating health issue, the integration of technology in healthcare, particularly through telehealth, offers a promising avenue for improving access to care and management of type 2 diabetes. The upcoming educational event at HMRI represents a step forward in equipping healthcare professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to combat this epidemic effectively.
As Hunter New England continues to address the challenges posed by type 2 diabetes, the focus on technological advancements and preventative strategies holds potential for significant impact. The region’s healthcare leaders remain committed to reducing the burden of this disease and improving the quality of life for those affected.
