Australia’s growing diabetes crisis is in the national spotlight today, with Health Minister Mark Butler and leading experts gathering in Canberra for the National Diabetes Summit.
Hosted by Diabetes Australia, the Summit brings together policy makers, clinicians, researchers and people living with diabetes to address what has been described as one of the country’s most complex health challenges. Around two million Australians are currently living with diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes, with another two million considered at high risk.
The impact is being felt locally, with more than 5,400 people living with diabetes in the Upper Hunter state electorate — including Radio Hunter Valley’s very own Pete Holland, who is in Canberra today. Diabetes Australia says regional communities often face added challenges accessing early diagnosis, specialist care and new technology.
Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said the Summit marked a critical moment for a nationally coordinated response.
“A challenge of this scale demands a national response,” Ms Cain said.
“Every five minutes an Australian is diagnosed with diabetes, and without action the number affected will continue to grow.”
Diabetes is linked to more than 1.2 million hospitalisations each year and is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure and lower‑limb amputations. Experts estimate up to 85 per cent of diabetes‑related amputations could be prevented with earlier intervention and coordinated care.
Ahead of the Summit, Diabetes Australia and partner organisations have made submissions to the Federal Budget calling for expanded subsidies for diabetes technologies, including continuous glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery systems, particularly for people at highest risk of complications.
