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Written by Dr Serena Jones, GP with Diabetes UK
Dr Serena graduated from Manchester University in 2008 (MBChB).
She also holds the MRCGP, DRCOG and DFSRH.
November marks National Diabetes Month, and today, on World Diabetes Day, we’re raising awareness about the symptoms of type 2 diabetes and the importance of early detection and management.
Why Do We Need to Know About it?
Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges in the UK. According to Diabetes UK:
- Over 4.6 million people in the UK have a diagnosis of diabetes — an all-time high.
- 90% of these cases are type 2 diabetes.
- An estimated 6.3 million people are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, with many unaware.
- A further 1.3 million people are living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes.
- That means 1 in 5 UK adults now live with either diabetes or prediabetes
These numbers are staggering — but behind them are real people, many of whom are experiencing no symptoms at all!
Common Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes often develops slowly. A lot of people don’t get any signs or symptoms of type 2 diabetes – or don’t notice them. Here are some of the most common signs:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Recurrent infections, such as thrush or urinary tract infections
- Unexplained weight loss
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak to your GP. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and help you manage the condition effectively.
Diabetes UK’s Strike Out Stigma campaign
This World Diabetes Day, we’re proud to stand with our partner Diabetes UK and their campaign to #StrikeOutStigma.
Passing judgement, making comments or sweeping statements, blaming and shaming. These things cause serious harm to people living with all types of diabetes. This is stigma, and evidence shows that stigma can lead to higher blood sugar levels, lower quality healthcare appointments and delayed access to treatments – a serious risk when you live with any type of diabetes.
Too many people living with diabetes still face blame and judgement, even though managing their condition takes strength, skill and resilience every day.
In fact,
- Over half of people surveyed by Diabetes UK said that stigma, judgement or shame means they sometimes avoid medical appointments.
- Across the UK over 8 in 10 people with type 1 and over 7 in 10 people with type 2 say they experience blame and judgement for their condition
- Stigma is most commonly experienced close to home, from friends and family members
Nobody should experience judgement or blame because of a health condition. That’s why we are joining Diabetes UK’s campaign to ‘Strike Out Stigma’ so that everyone gets the support they need to live well with their diabetes.
Together, we can change how we talk about diabetes.
How can you get involved?
Sign up to join Diabetes UK’s campaign, and help us fight for a world where everyone with diabetes lives free from blame or judgement and can access the care and support they need.
Call Diabetes UK’s helpline on 0345 123 2399 for answers, support or just to speak to someone who understands diabetes.
Talking About Diabetes:
We need to change the conversation around diabetes. That starts with:
- Education: Understanding the symptoms and risks
- Empathy: Supporting those affected without judgment
- Encouragement: Urging people to seek help early
If you’re worried about your blood sugar levels or have a family history of diabetes, don’t wait. A simple blood test could make all the difference.
What You Can Do Today
- Book a check-up with your GP if you’re experiencing symptoms
- Find out your risk of developing type 2 diabetes using Diabetes UK’s free Know Your Risk tool
- Share this blog to raise awareness and reduce stigma
On this World Diabetes Day, let’s commit to recognising the signs, supporting one another, and removing the stigma that holds people back.
At Kinetik Wellbeing, we’re committed to supporting people living with diabetes beyond just providing products. That’s why we’ve partnered with Diabetes UK, to help support their vital work through a donation made for every device sold in our diabetes range.
You can view our diabetes care range here:
