19 July 2007

Diabetes Week recently highlighted the rapidly growing number of people developing diabetes in our community, and Hunter New England Health and Diabetes Australia are hosting three days of information to help people deal with the condition and prevent the onset of complications.

Armidale Community Health’s diabetes educator, Louise Vaughan, said staff from Diabetes Australia are coming to Armidale on August 9-11 to conduct a series of seminars for all individuals with an interest in diabetes, as well as sessions for aged care workers, pharmacy assistants and families of young people with diabetes.

Ms Vaughan said the first full day session on Thursday 9 August, is called ‘Connecting the Dots’ to be held at the Armidale Bowling Club, and is open to the general public. It will cover specific information about high blood glucose levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, exercise, foot care and eye care. Cost is $5 for Diabetes Australia members, $10 for non-members.

“This information will help to ensure optimum management and prevent complications of the condition, such as circulation, eye sight, kidney and other major organ damage,” she said.

“Most people with diabetes have developed Type 2 diabetes later in life. Learning about what the risk factors are for developing Type 2 diabetes in the first place, and learning about what specific strategies can be put in place to reduce the risk of complications, can be life changing.”

On Friday 10 August, there will be two half day sessions to be held at the Cattleman’s Motor Inn – one for aged care workers and carers of older people with diabetes, followed by an afternoon session for pharmacy assistants to bring them up to date with the latest technology and medication options for people with diabetes.

People can access information about these sessions from Armidale Community Health on 6776 9600 or by calling Diabetes Australia on 1300 136 588.

The Saturday program, specifically designed for parents, carers, teachers and coaches of children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes, will be held at the Armidale Bowling Club and costs just $20 for adults and $10 for teenagers.

Louise Vaughan said Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the pancreas simply shuts down and does not produce enough insulin to process blood sugars. While it can and does occur at any age, Louise said it usually affects children and young adults

“This Saturday information day called ‘Diabetes: A Family Affair’ will be officially opened by our local member of parliament Richard Torbay, demonstrating the seriousness of diabetes for families.

“We will be covering issues specifically for parents, schools, management plans, nutrition and the latest research and technology. It will also be a great opportunities to ask questions,” she said.

Registrations close on Friday 20 July. Registration forms are available from Armidale Community Health (Ph: 6776 9600) or Diabetes Australia (1300 136 588).

Contact: Kay Cope

Phone: 6776 9817