Did you know more than 30 Queenslanders are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes every day?

That equates to about 1 in 23 Queenslanders with those aged 50-79 years being the most affected. There are various types of diabetes but type 2 diabetes is the most common. It occurs when the pancreas no longer works properly to maintain healthy blood glucose levels.

Gender, family history and lifestyle behaviours are all factors that can impact on a person’s likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.

A lot of people do not realise the seriousness of type 2 diabetes. Left undiagnosed, ignored or untreated, it can have life-changing consequences. Stroke, heart attack, kidney damage, nerve damage, eye issues, depression and sexual dysfunction are just some of the complications.

However, the upside is that type 2 diabetes can often be prevented, or its progression slowed with lifestyle changes. Healthy eating, regular exercise, good sleep, stress management and maintaining a healthy weight all contribute to lessening a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Is it worth the effort? You bet. Evidence shows that type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in up to 58 percent of cases by maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active and following a healthy eating plan.