Tesco has launched a campaign with Diabetes UK to help one million people understand the risk of type 2 diabetes and get support to prevent or delay the condition.
Offering a free online ‘Know Your Risk’ tool via Diabetes UK or by visiting a Tesco pharmacy, those completing the assessment will be directed to free advice and information on the help available to manage their risk.
This comes following new research commissioned by the partnership which found people under 40 are generally unaware of many symptoms of type 2 diabetes or the complications the condition can lead to and 68% didn’t know how to check if they were at risk.
It also found that as a result of the cost-of-living crisis, 57% of people have deprioritised their health and 23% have avoided or put off medical checks.
In addition to the campaign which comes ahead of World Diabetes Day on 14 November, the leading retailer has also launched a series of healthy and budget-friendly recipes.
“Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common health conditions we face in the UK, but the reality is that many cases could be prevented or delayed. And we know that a healthy diet is one of the ways to reduce your risk,” Tesco UK & ROI CEO Jason Tarry.
“With 373 Tesco pharmacies across the country, serving half a million people a week, our community pharmacists can also provide expert support and advice.
“Next time you’re in-store, visit the pharmacy and have a quick chat to one of our pharmacists or try out one of the healthy and budget friendly recipes we’ve created. Reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes is doable and affordable, with the right support, and a few simple changes can make a big difference.”
Diabetes UK chief executive, Chris Askew OBE added: “This trend of rapidly-increasing early-onset type 2 diabetes is incredibly troubling. It marks a shift from what we’ve seen historically and should be taken as a serious warning to policymakers and our NHS.
“If you’re under 40, you’re not immune to type 2 diabetes. It is vital that you check your risk now and that individuals, no matter what their age or background, are given the opportunity to access support to reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes.”
