NHS rolls out world-first programme to transform diabetes care for under 40s
Around 140,000 people aged 18 to 39 years old will receive additional tailored health checks from healthcare staff, and support with diabetes management, such as blood sugar level control, weight management and cardiovascular risk minimisation.
Under the ambitious new programme, named ‘T2Day: Type 2 Diabetes in the Young’, patients will benefit from extra one-to-one reviews as well as the option of new medicines and treatments where indicated, to help better manage their diabetes.
Addressing the additional risks associated with the condition during pregnancy, there will also be dedicated support available for women, including access to contraception and folic acid supplements.
Backed by £14.5 million, local health teams will be supported to roll out the new scheme to help minimise the risk of these people developing health complications and severe illness and to support a reduction in health inequalities.
Eligible individuals may also be able to access the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme – a year-long programme including 12 weeks of low-calorie total diet replacement products and support to re-introduce food, with the aim of supporting participants to improve their blood sugar levels, reduce diabetes-related medication and in some cases put their type 2 diabetes into remission.
The NHS is the first health system in the world to put in place a national, targeted programme for this high-risk group of people.
Early onset type 2 diabetes is more aggressive than later onset type 2 diabetes and is more prevalent in people living within deprived areas and individuals from minority ethnic groups.
Defined as a serious disease by medical experts, early onset type diabetes is associated with premature mortality, worse long-term health outcomes, and higher risk of diabetes-related health complications, such as sight loss, kidney failure, amputation, heart attacks and strokes.
