Diabetes Type I & II
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body cannot properly use its main energy source - blood glucose.
This is often due to both environmental and hereditary factors.
Diabetes can be treated, but there is no cure. It can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and premature death.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in children and young adults, and requires regular insulin replacement. Left untreated, T1 has a 100% death rate.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes accounts for around 85% of cases. T2 can sometimes be managed through exercise and diet, but generally also requires insulin replacement.
Diabetes Facts
Diabetes is a major health crisis.
- Diabetes can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, nerve disease, renal failure, blindness and physical incapacitation.
- It’s one of the top ten causes of death.
- The national cost is estimated at more than $900 million a year.
- The incidence of diabetes is climbing at an alarming rate—more than 700,000 diagnoses each year.
- 2,000,000 Australian adults are obese, making them prime candidates for T2.
Risk Factors
- Excess weight or obesity is the number one risk factor for diabetes.
- Family history and genetics.
- Inactive, sedentary lifestyles.
- Unhealthy eating habits, poor diet, high fats and sugars, not enough fibre.
- High blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Pioneering research into diabetes has resulted in a rich history of vital advances in prevention, diagnosis and care that has saved and improved the quality of lives of countless people across Australia and the world. Over the past few decades alone, research into diabetes has resulted in a dramatic and sustained drop in death rates in Australia. Yet, despite such significant research, the incidence of diabetes is climbing at an alarming rate and we are still faced with a major health crisis which accounts for over 700,000 new diagnoses a year. At present Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, as researchers need to find out how to unlock the process that results in the destruction of the body’s insulin. However, the good news for Type 2 diabetes is that research shows that it can be prevented and managed in many cases through weight loss and exercise.
Today, PA researchers are making real headway into
investigating ways to treat,
prevent and cure diabetes…
 Our researchers are working on a blood test to identify those at risk of developing T1, and then tailoring treatments to prevent the disease.
- Health and fitness programs are being trialled for the prevention and management of T2 and associated conditions.
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- Research trials of "lifestyle intervention" are taking place enrolling patients in a diet and exercise program over
months and years to measure the benefits of the program on heart disease, diabetes, weight, fitness and requirement for medications.
Prevention Tips
Making a few small changes to our day to day lifestyles can help prevent diabetes and it is never too late to start.
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Get more physical activity, which helps your blood sugar levels stay within a normal range
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Get plenty of fibre. Fibre may reduce the risk of diabetes by improving your blood sugar control
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Skip fad diets and make healthier choices. Enjoy a variety of foods including plenty of fruit and vegetables, whole grain foods, lean meat and fish, dairy products
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Reduce the intake of high and saturated fat foods. Limit your takeaways, cakes, confectionery and alcohol consumption
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