Health Minister Mike Nesbitt is urging the public to educate themselves on the risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes, coinciding with Diabetes Awareness Week.

This call comes as figures reveal a significant increase in diabetes prevalence across Northern Ireland.

The number of people living with diabetes in Northern Ireland has grown by almost 30% in the past eight years, rising from 88,305 adults in 2016 to 114,673 adults in 2024. Approximately 90% of these individuals are living with Type 2 diabetes, 8% with Type 1, and 2% with other forms of the condition. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 is largely preventable.

Minister Nesbitt acknowledged the challenging nature of diabetes as a chronic condition. "I recognise that diabetes is one of the most challenging chronic conditions affecting people, and it impacts many aspects of everyday life," he stated. Highlighting the preventable nature of Type 2 diabetes, the Minister encouraged the public to take proactive steps: "With Type 2 diabetes being largely preventable, this Diabetes Awareness Week, I am encouraging the public to learn the risk factors, and take some steps to help look after their own health. Type 2 diabetes is closely linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity and being overweight. Evidence shows that with the right support, many cases can be delayed, prevented altogether, or placed in remission."

The risk factors for Type 2 diabetes are complex and include age, family history, ethnicity, being overweight or obese, and social deprivation.

Dr Elaine King, Clinical Lead for the NI Diabetes Network, reinforced the importance of early awareness. "Prevention starts with awareness. Many people don't realise they are at risk until it's too late," she said. Dr King also noted that even after a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle adjustments can lead to remission and reduce the risk of further health complications. She advised everyone to "check their risk, make healthier choices, and speak to their GP or health professional if they have concerns."

In related developments, the Department of Health last year announced a Regional Young Adults Progression Pathway, designed to support young people with Type 1 diabetes in their transition to adult services. Furthermore, last month, the Minister unveiled a new Regional Obesity Management Service, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, aimed at reducing health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes.

The three primary methods to prevent Type 2 diabetes are identified as:

• Eating more healthily

• Being more active

• Losing weight if living with obesity or being overweight, or having an unhealthy waist size.