DIABETES sufferers across East Lancashire are set to benefit from the Government's decision to make pen needles and re-usable insulin pens available on prescription.

Health Minister Lord Philip Hunt announced that the new benefits will come into force from March 1.

He said: "People with diabetes deserve access to top quality standards of care and treatment. Many have to give themselves insulin injections every day of their lives. The comfort and convenience of their injections are therefore more than usually important.

"Injection pens are easier and more convenient to use than syringes, and the needles which fit them are smaller and more comfortable.

Chief executive of the British Diabetic Association (BDA), Paul Street, said: "This is excellent news for people with diabetes - it shows what can be achieved when the Government works with patient groups such as the British Diabetic Association."

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