Consumer group testing through the Let’s Beat Diabetes Programme has shown that a number of the Indian community in Counties Manukau are surprised that Type 2 Diabetes can be prevented.

The South Asian community has a very high rate of Type 2 Diabetes in New Zealand and about 80% of cases can be prevented or delayed by a healthy diet and regular exercise.

A number of the research group which gave feedback on ethnic-specific health messages were familiar with the condition in the Indian community but thought that it was determined solely by genetics. Participants were not only surprised that it was often preventable but also amazed that prevention could be as simple as managing what people were eating.

Having a close family member with Type 2 Diabetes does increase the risk for other family members. Also women with gestational diabetes and the babies have a higher risk. However the modifiable risks which can lead to the condition include consumption of high fat and high sugar foods, lack of regular exercise and excess body weight.

Type 2 Diabetes fits within a group of conditions referred to as lifestyle diseases. Daily lifestyle habits have a direct bearing on the prevention and management of the condition. One of the main contributors to developing diabetes which is common to all ethnicities is central obesity or obesity around the waist. If a person’s waist circumference is greater than their hips their chance of developing the condition increases.

If people have any concerns or health issues about obesity or Type 2 Diabetes they should contact their family doctor or nurse.

It is recommended that all people of South Asian descent should receive a cardiovascular risk assessment which includes a check for diabetes once they reached the age of 35 for mean and 45 for women and follow up checks with a doctor are recommended every five years.