More than ten per cent of Central Australian residents have Type 2 Diabetes, and the number could be higher, according to the NT Department of Health and Families.
National Diabetes Week (12-18 July 2009) aims to raise awareness of diabetes around the country and educate Australians of the risk factors involved with the disease.
Diabetes is caused when the body no longer produces enough of the hormone 'insulin' which acts as a key to get the sugar into cells for energy. Type 2 Diabetes is treated with diet and lifestyle change and oral medications.
Alice Springs Hospital Diabetes Educator Glynis Dent said rates of diabetes were particularly high in Central Australia.
"Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions globally. The national prevalence rate of diabetes is between four per cent and eight per cent.
"In Central Australia that figure is higher-closer to 11.8 per cent-according to National Diabetes Supply Scheme data," said Ms Dent.
She said there are several types of diabetes but the most common-Type 2 Diabetes-can be prevented.
"People who are overweight or obese, who aren't getting enough exercise or have high blood pressure are at a greater risk. They are advised to get tested by their GP or health centre.
"Healthy eating and regular physical exercise can lower your chances of being diagnosed with this chronic illness," said Ms Dent.
For more information on diabetes visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au
Media contact: Cameron Jackson 0401 114 113
Release date: Wednesday 15 July 2009