Type 2 Diabetes: Knowledge, Awareness and Support amongst Hertfordshire Residents
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Healthwatch Hertfordshire was commissioned by the local ICB to explore public awareness and understanding of Type 2 Diabetes, and to understand whether those with a diagnosis feel confident and comfortable in managing their condition. They ran an online survey to which 216 people responded.
Two in five had been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. They were more likely to be over the age of 65, male, and White British. Interestingly, only 48% with a diagnosis considered themselves to have a longterm condition.
30% of those without a diagnosis have been told by a medical professional that they are at risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. Respondents who are at risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes tended to be younger in age, but were more likely to be male and from an ethnically diverse background. They were also slightly more likely to have less disposable income.
Awareness and understanding of risk factors varied between demographic groups, including ethnicity, gender and income.
People without a diagnosis generally had good awareness of the risk factors and symptoms associated with Type 2 Diabetes – although knowledge of some of the most common risk factors and symptoms was lower across some demographic groups which needs careful consideration.
Positively, the majority of people without a diagnosis knew how to access support if they had concerns, and would feel comfortable speaking to a healthcare professional about this. However, 64% of respondents over the age of 40 had not had an NHS Health Check – this is concerning given the role NHS Health Checks play in identifying early signs of Type 2 Diabetes which could otherwise be missed.
For those who had been told that they are at high risk, encouragingly 58% felt supported in how to prevent Type 2 Diabetes. However only 55% had been referred to the NHS Prevention Programme, of which 45% attended – although referral and attendance statistics were much lower across some demographic groups. Most people who did attend had a very positive experience, highlighting the importance of ensuring anyone at risk is referred.
Findings for people with Type 2 Diabetes were also generally positive – with most respondents having had an Annual Diabetes Review in which the nine care processes were carried out, and the majority felt comfortable in self-managing their condition. Despite this confidence, most respondents still said they faced challenges and called for more information about healthy eating and more clinical support in lowering their blood glucose levels. They also felt their condition could have been better explained at diagnosis and more support given – with only 35% referred to the DESMOND programme.
Whilst these findings are promising, they also highlight key areas for continued improvements, particularly around support, information and education. For people with and without a diagnosis, there are particular demographic groups which clearly need targeted attention to ensure they are receiving the appropriate information, support and care from primary care services.