Today is World Diabetes Day and this year’s message is “act today to change tomorrow.” Lizzie Anderson discovers why it is important to get tested

Michael McCabe looks the picture of health as he cycles into car park of the Pioneering Care Centre in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham. The svelte 80-year-old is a one of the health centre’s volunteer cycle marshals and leads up to three bike rides a week.

“It was just a short one today, around 13 miles,” he says, as he hops off his bike. “Someone got a puncture.”

As well as cycling, Michael is a keen walker and eats a reasonably balanced diet. He has never experienced any serious health problems, aside from high cholesterol, which he immediately took steps to address. But, during a review appointment two years ago, a nurse noticed his blood sugar level was high and further tests led to a diagnosis of type two diabetes.

This is the most common form of diabetes in adults and occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin to function properly or when the cells do not react to insulin.

It causes the blood sugar level to become too high, which can result in serious damage to blood vessels, nerves and organs if left untreated.

Possible complications include increased stroke risk, kidney failure, eyesight problems, sexual dysfunction and foot circulation issues.

The diagnosis came as a surprise for the sprightly pensioner who had never considered himself at risk of the condition, which is often associated with obesity.

However, he is not alone.

More than three million people in England live with diabetes and NHS data estimates a further 850,000 have it but do not know it.

Michael, from Newton Aycliffe, says: “There are a lot of people out there who are living with diabetes and don’t know it.

“I didn’t realise I had it but I am so pleased that I found out because the consequences can be awful. I would certainly encourage people to take the test.

“Diabetes doesn’t have to ruin your life. I have always been active and eaten well but now I am extra careful. If there is cake at a party I just have a small bit and I avoid crisps and sugary snacks.”

This World Diabetes Day, the International Diabetes Federation and other leading charities, including Silver Star Diabetes, Diabetes UK and the Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP), based in Newton Aycliffe, have joined forces to raise awareness of the condition and the support available.

Their aim is to encourage people take free screening tests and to ensure the recently diagnosed and those in high risk categories receive help to address the lifestyle issues that may be contributing.

Those most at risk of diabetes include: the overweight; those with a parent, brother or sister with diabetes; sufferers of schizophrenia, bipolar illness or depression; and anyone who has had high blood pressure, a heart attack or a stroke.

Today (Friday, November 14) free diabetes screening tests are on offer between 9am and 4pm at the Pioneering Care Centre, Carers Way, Newton Aycliffe and the Foundations Centre, Church Street, Shildon.

Those found to be at high risk or are diagnosed as having above normal glucose regulation scores will be referred to the PCP Living Well Taking Control programme.

The programme is designed to give people the skills and confidence to take control of their condition by promoting good health and well being.

Behaviour changes, such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and positive thinking are encouraged

Michael is a great ambassador for the health and fitness activities the PCP offers, which he credits with improving his well being as well as his fitness.

“The regular activity keeps me busy, gets my joints moving and gives me a clean bill of health from the doctor,” he says.

“It also makes my family happy as they don’t have to worry about me or look after me as much.

“Being involved in the cycling group also has excellent social benefits; I have met some lovely people who are now close friends. The camaraderie in the group is fantastic.”

For more information about the cycling group and other activities on offer contact the PCP on 01325-321234.

The public can also contact the same number or email healthtrainers@pcp.uk.net to find out more about diabetes screening or to book an appointment for another day.