MARIBYRNONG has retained its unfortunate tag as one of Victoria’s leading diabetes hot spots.
Diabetes Australia research shows 3190 Maribyrnong residents are living with diabetes, with about four new cases diagnosed each week.
Diabetes is the nation’s fastest-growing chronic disease, afflicting about 1.7 million Australians, and is the sixth leading cause of death. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the condition, affecting up to 90 per cent of those diagnosed.
With the number of sufferers predicted to top 3.3 million by 2031, Western Region Health Centre ran a special World Diabetes Day event in Footscray last Tuesday.
The event featured health screenings, guest speakers, information stalls and tai chi sessions along with opportunities for people to talk to dietitians and diabetes nurses.
