Diabetes Victoria has released an “Open Letter” to both major parties seeking a commitment to address the incredibly serious and growing diabetes pandemic.
The open letter is signed by 26 leaders of the health and diabetes community, including diabetes advocates, Dr Susan Alberti AC and Prof Paul Zimmet AO.
“We are calling on the next Victorian Government to make an election commitment now to prioritise the support of Victorians and their families, who are living with diabetes,” CEO of Diabetes Victoria, Glen Noonan said.
“Government already knows one in four people in Victoria’s hospitals has diabetes.
“There’s a recognition we need to reduce hospital admissions among people with diabetes. But there is no clear plan on how to achieve this. The issue is not being taken seriously enough.
“The community needs both major parties to act on diabetes care – and recognise that over
1 million Victorians – that is, one in five voters – are affected by diabetes in some way, either by having some type of diabetes themselves, or having a family member with diabetes.
“We need a plan – an ambitious Victorian Diabetes Plan – focused on the urgent need to improve both the health and quality of life of all Victorians affected by, or at risk of, diabetes, and to reduce hospital admissions,” he said.
According to Diabetes Victoria, there is currently no cure for any type of diabetes and all types of diabetes have long-term health implications, which can reduce both quality and length of life.
“In the past two years, one in five COVID-19 deaths have been among people with pre-existing diabetes,” Mr Noonan said.
People with diabetes have been far more likely than the general population to be hospitalised and experience very serious complications.
“Diabetes is increasing at a faster rate than any other chronic condition and remains one of the biggest challenges confronting our health system.
“These are testing times for everyone, but particularly for the 374,000 Victorians who are currently living with diabetes,” he said.
The open letter comes on World Diabetes Day (14 November).
For more information, visit: diabetesvic.org.au.
