Diabetes Awareness Month is a dedicated time to raise awareness and educate people about diabetes, a condition that affects blood glucose levels and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Diabetes remains one of the most pressing long-term health conditions managed in primary care. With its burden rising globally and across the UK, primary care teams play a pivotal role – from early detection of risk, through supporting self-management, to monitoring and treating complications.
The SPCR has funded research project that advocate for better care and support for those living with the disease, these are some of the more recent projects:
- IMPACT CASE STUDY: Supporting the creation of a digital self-management programme for type 2 diabetes. The Healthy Living programme provides online information about type 2 diabetes, advice on mental wellbeing and guidance on healthy behaviours. This service came from the HeLP-Diabetes study that was led by the late Professor Elizabeth Murray to develop and test this digital approach. Links: NIHR SPCR Project No: 324
- RESEARCH: Reinforcing annual postpartum diabetes screening in women with previous gestational diabetes (REMIND). Dr Moscho Michalopoulou and Associate Professor Nerys Astbury, from the University of Oxford, are looking to provide information to help transform primary care for women affected by Gestational diabetes (GDM). GDM causes problems during pregnancy and delivery. But recent research also shows that, although GDM usually resolves after giving birth, it can cause health problems for women later in life too. SPCR Project No. 738
- PUBLICATION: Achieving patient weighing in UK primary care. A conversation analytic study. Abstract Addressing issues of weight with people with type 2 diabetes is increasingly becoming part of the workload of primary care. Jamie Ross, Queen Mary University of London, SPCR Project No. 443
As we observe Diabetes Awareness Month, the SPCR reaffirms its commitment to research that promotes understanding supports individuals with Diabetes.