Midlands regions hit 743,749 diabetes diagnoses

Our new analysis shows the number of people diagnosed with diabetes in the Midlands region has increased from 713,093 to 743,749 since last year.

This means the average prevalence in the Midlands is now 8% and that one in 12 people in the region are now living with a diagnosis of diabetes in the region. 

Leicester City is the area with the highest diabetes prevalence in the Midlands, and highest in England overall, with 9.9% of people having been diagnosed with diabetes. 

The lowest prevalence in the region is in Coventry and Warwickshire, with 7.0%%, while the national average for England is 7.3%. Other high-prevalence areas include Birmingham, Solihull, the Black County and Lincolnshire.

Peter Shorrick, Head of Midlands and East at Diabetes UK, said:

“Diabetes is serious, and every diagnosis is life changing. It’s a relentless condition, and the fear of serious complications is a lifelong reality for millions of people across the UK.    

“These latest figures show we’re in the grip of a rapidly escalating diabetes crisis, with spiralling numbers of people now living with type 2 diabetes and millions at high risk of developing the condition. 

“But it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right care and support, cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or put into remission. What we need to see is the will, grit and determination from Government and local health leaders to halt this crisis in its tracks and improve the future health of our nation for generations to come.”    

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes is important. They include the 4Ts:

• Thirsty (being really thirsty).
• Tired (feeling more tired than usual).
• Thinner (losing weight without trying).    

You can learn more about your personal risk of type 2 diabetes by using our free, online Know Your Risk tool. It takes just a few minutes to complete and advises you on your risk and suggests next steps to help reduce your risk.