Diabetes Ireland, in partnership with healthcare company MSD, is hosting a free diabetes awareness day at First Choice Pharmacy, Tesco, on Thursday, 15th September, as part of its national ‘Diabetes Roadshow’ initiative, taking place in 20 locations across the country.
The day is open to all adults and especially if they have diabetes or a family member with diabetes. Now in its third year, this hugely successful free education and screening programme has to date helped over 1,900 people to either take steps to prevent type 2 diabetes or to get additional advice to prevent diabetes complications.
The screening is very simple and takes only a few minutes so adults are encouraged to visit the Diabetes Ireland team at First Choice Pharmacy and get their free risk assessment and screening for Type 2 Diabetes, as well as receive information and advice on how best to prevent, manage and treat this condition.
More than 850,000 Irish adults over 40 are at increased risk of developing, or already have, Type 2 Diabetes and this figure is set to rise dramatically. Type 2 Diabetes, which usually develops slowly in adulthood, is progressive and can sometimes be treated with diet and exercise, but more often requires management with medication and/or insulin injections.
“This is our third year to partner with Diabetes Ireland in the roll out of this national ‘Diabetes Roadshow’ and we are delighted to see the public and local pharmacies continue to value and support this initiative. We hope it helps raise awareness of Type 2 Diabetes and support people to be more proactive in the management of their health.” Commented Ms Nicola Fullam, Patient Programme Manager, MSD Ireland.
Speaking about the importance of the Diabetes Awareness Roadshow, Dr. Anna Clarke, Health Promotion and Research Manager, Diabetes Ireland said, “Diabetes in Ireland, particularly Type 2 – has reached epidemic proportions. Chronic conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes can often seem daunting, which is why it is so important that people educate themselves on how to identify risk factors in their lifestyle and correct the modifiable ones, complete risk assessments and proactively manage their health. We are delighted to have the support of MSD on a national and community level and to partner with their team in order to take this successful Roadshow around the country again this year.”
Sandra Duffy, Pharmacist at First Choice Pharmacy, Tesco, said, “We are delighted to be a host for the free diabetes awareness day at First Choice Pharmacy. The assessment only takes a few minutes so we are encouraging everyone to come along and why not bring someone else along with you. We really can’t wait to see new and familiar faces come along on the day between 10am and 4pm.”
The Diabetes Roadshow comes to Tesco Wexford on Thursday 15th September.