A function in Parliament House has highlighted the impact of diabetes on our community and showcased the latest in current resources and emergency treatment.
Co-convenor of the Parliamentary Friends of People Affected by Diabetes Gaelle Broad said the event was held in conjunction with Diabetes Victoria.
“This was a unique opportunity for networking and learning – bringing together experts, Members of Parliament and most importantly, people living with diabetes,” Ms Broad said.
“We know that in regional Victoria the rates of diabetes are increasing dramatically. This disease is profoundly affecting people’s lives and placing an extra burden on our struggling health system.
“Almost 400,000 people in Victoria have been diagnosed with diabetes, and many more are unaware that they have it.
“Diabetes is the third leading driver of major health issues in Northern Victoria, behind cardiovascular disease and cancer. People with diabetes are up to four times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke. It is the leading cause of blindness in adults and a leading cause of kidney failure and amputation.”
However, Ms Broad said some inspiring work was being done to combat diabetes, and to help patients manage their condition.
“The recent launch of the Diabetes Virtual Emergency Department was a potential game-changer, especially for rural and regional Victorians who often face barriers to accessing timely health care.
“Diabetes Victoria’s Life! Program has also seen great results.”
CEO of Diabetes Victoria Glen Noonan thanked Ms Broad and all involved in organising the event and said he was delighted to see strong interest from MPs.
“We want them to take what they learn here and get it out into the community so there’s a real multiplier effect.”
Mr Noonan said diabetes had now become a global epidemic. One in seven Victorians has the disease. That number is expected to double by 2050.
It is having a major impact on Victoria’s hospitals where 25 to 40 per cent of people have diabetes. However, Mr Noonan said around 60 per cent of cases could be delayed or even prevented with the right prevention measures and care.
Guests at the event included Diabetes Victoria Board Directors Richard Loveridge (Board Chair) and Anthony Howard AM KC, as well as leading academics Professor Elif Ekinci, Professor Helena Teede and Professor Jane Speight.
To access the Diabetes Virtual Emergency Department go to: https://www.vved.org.au/
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
