Type 2 diabetes is a significant health issue facing New Zealanders. There are approximately 115,000 people with Type 2 diabetes in New Zealand. This figure is expected to grow to 145,000 by 2011.

PHARMAC has been working with consumers, diabetes nurses, specialists and general practitioners to develop a suite of resources designed to inform and help patients manage Type 2 diabetes, with the support of health professionals.

What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood.

How does diabetes occur?
We all have a gland called a pancreas that sits behind the stomach. The pancreas makes a chemical called insulin which helps move the glucose from the blood into the body’s cells. If the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin or if the insulin doesn’t work properly too much glucose remains in the blood. This is called diabetes.
Over time, high levels of glucose in the blood can damage the blood vessels. This in turn can damage other parts of the body such as the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves.

Managing your diabetes
Keeping your blood glucose as close to normal as possible is the best way to prevent the complications of diabetes. Some people with Type 2 diabetes need to take tablets as soon as they are diagnosed. Others may need to take tablets at a later stage or may need to go on insulin therapy.
The best way to control blood glucose levels is by:
• following a healthy eating plan
• doing regular physical activity, and
• always taking medication as prescribed by your doctor.