Diabetes UK has found that 13.6 million people in the UK are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. And type 2 diabetes is serious. The good news is you can prevent or delay developing type 2 diabetes. If you maintain a healthy weight and are more active, the risk of developing diabetes is significantly reduced.

Who's more at risk?

There are lots of reasons you could be more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. The main risk factors include being:

  • Overweight or obese
  • Not physically active and spends long periods of time sitting
  • A smoker or drink too much alcohol
  • Over 40 and white, or over 25 and African-Caribbean, Black-African, Chinese or South Asian
  • Family members have a history of diabetes, heart attack or stroke
  • Blood pressure is high or has been high in the past

Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme

The free NHS Healthier You Programme is a behaviour change programme that supports people to make small changes to their daily lives to help them feel great and reduce their risk of diabetes. People on the programme learn about -

                      • What is a healthy diet
                      • Ways to add physical activity into everyday life
                      • How to remove barriers that get in the way of making healthy changes
                      • Life changing skills and knowledge for long-term success
                      • Skills to stay motivated

You can join the programme in face-to-face groups, through the digital app or on our tailored remote groups for people with visual and hearing impairments or those from Bangladeshi or Pakistani backgrounds who require a specific cultural and language tailored service.

To find out more information about the Greater Manchester Healthier You programme please visit our provider Reed Wellbeing's website here.  

How do I find out if I'm at risk and join Healthier You?

If you’re concerned that you may be at risk, it’s essential to find out as early as possible. Please contact your GP practice and your receptionist will let you know the best way to find out if you are at risk and refer you to the programme.

Alternatively, sign up to receive your free NHS Health Check. Find further information about Health Checks here.