Around a million adults in the UK could have a condition dubbed an ‘invisible killer’ and not know it, according to shock new figures. A simple blood test could tell people if they have undiagnosed diabetes, doctors say.
Health professionals are now spreading the word as those with diabetes could include people who are young and of “average weight” and not have any symptoms. An estimated one million adults in the UK have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, ONS figures show, while around 50% of cases in people under 44 are likely to be undiagnosed.
People are now being encouraged to get quick-and-easy blood tests which could tell them if they have diabetes and allow them to start managing their condition. Doctors say the earlier people are diagnosed, the better the outcome will be
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Dr Avinash Hari Narayanan, clinical lead at London Medical Laboratory, said: “Diabetes is an invisible killer that shortens lives by up to 10 years. Untreated diabetes can lead to blindness, amputations and death.
“Swift treatment is vital. Although millions of Brits are already being treated for type 2 diabetes, these new figures reveal around 30% of people who have “full-blown” type 2 diabetes aren’t even aware of it. Ironically, the younger you are and the healthier you seem, the more likely it is your diabetes will remain undiagnosed.
“The figures are even worse for prediabetics – people on the threshold of developing “full-blown” diabetes. Prediabetes affects around one in nine Brits, says the ONS, which equates to approximately 5.1 million adults.
“It’s astonishing to think that both diabetes and prediabetes can be identified by a simple finger-prick blood test, yet 30% of diabetics and potentially millions of prediabetics remain undiagnosed. Remember, prediabetes is an entirely reversible condition. Basic changes to lifestyle and diet can ensure people return to full health and prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in most cases.”
Dr Narayanan continued: “Older or overweight people are likely to be checked for the condition. However, there are many people who could have diabetes or, at least, prediabetes but who never get checked. These include those who are in better health, have a lower body mass index (BMI) or who are considered at “low-risk” because they are aged under 44.
“The ONS’ own figures show 8% of people who were not overweight or obese are known to have prediabetes. This is a missed opportunity for intervention in a group of people who would have comparatively greater positive outcomes.
“Concerningly, prediabetics are unlikely to experience any symptoms, meaning the condition goes unnoticed even at the threshold of type 2 diabetes, when irreversible damage has already occurred.”
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
