Diabetes patients are set to benefit from expansion of NHS prevention programmes.

Healthier you: The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme was first rolled out in 2016 in 27 areas across the country after statistics revealed 22,000 people with diabetes die early ever year. As well as the human cost, it was also revealed that treatment cost the NHS around £8.8 billion per year, which accounts for almost nine percent of the annual budget.

Russ McClean, 56, Chair for patients across East Lancashire said: "As a diabetic myself I am really pleased that the commissioners have decided to roll out the programme and give people the tools to look after themselves.

"We all know the NHS is falling down, it will take prevention to save money when it comes to diabetes".

Now, people from Lancashire, as well as thirteen other areas across the country, who are identified as being at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes can now be referred by their GP on to the programme.

Chris Askew, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK said: “This is the first time so many local areas will receive new money to help them improve diabetes services.

"With three million people diagnosed with diabetes in England, it is right that the NHS is helping them avoid complications such as amputations, heart attacks and strokes".

Those referred will get tailored, personalised help to reduce their risk of developing the disease. This will include education on healthy eating and lifestyle, help to lose weight and bespoke physical exercise programmes, all of which together have been proven to reduce the risk of developing the condition.

Duncan Selbie, Chief Executive of Public Health England, said: “While more people than ever have the condition, Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable.

Our prevention programme is putting people in control of their health –the results from the first year show the programme is already helping thousands of people and reaching those at higher risk.”

There are an estimated 5 million undiagnosed diabetes sufferers across the UK, visit www.diabetes.co.uk to find out more.