MP backs diabetes screening push
26th January 2012
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin today backed a national campaign aimed at encouraging people to get tested for diabetes.
Nearly three million people in the UK have the disease but it is estimated that a further 850,000 are undisagnosed sufferers.
Harriett attended an awareness session at the House of Commons yesterday (Wednesday January 25) and was tested for the disease.
Harriett commented: “Far too many people bury their heads in the sand and don’t get tested.
“Diabetes is a serious condition and many people across the country are just ignoring a simple test which would help them live longer and healthier lives.
“I was pleased that my test was within the normal range and I would encourage as many people as possible to get themselves tested to get peace of mind or treatment if needed.”
The testing was run by the International Diabetes Federation.
Organisation president, Sir Michael Hirst comented: “We welcome the support of Harriett Baldwin in raising awareness of diabetes through our parliamentary event.
“Last November millions of people around the globe came together to mark World Diabetes Day. We hope that the two-day event helps create further awareness in the UK of the condition and its consequences.”
Photo: Harriett Baldwin with Deidre Kyne Grezebalski from the International Diabetes Federation
