This Black History Month X Factor winner Alexandra Burke and entrepreneur Levi Roots are backing Diabetes UK’s call to get more people involved in raising awareness of the signs and risks of Type 2 diabetes through the charity’s Community Champions programme. Derrick ‘Mr Motivator’ Evans, gospel singer Annastasia Baker, DJ Eddie Nestor, TV personality Rustie Lee and celebrity personal trainer Steve Agyei are also urging people to sign up who are passionate about tackling Type 2 diabetes in their communities.
People from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities can be two to four times more likely than average to develop Type 2 diabetes, yet simple lifestyle changes can dramatically reduce the risk of developing the condition or help manage it well.
Diabetes UK says the Community Champions of all backgrounds have an important role in helping tackle the growing diabetes crisis in the UK, so is looking for more volunteers to spread the word in schools, community centres, places of worship and health centres.
Thousands of people around the country are already finding out about their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, reducing their risk, and better self-managing the condition, thanks to the existing Community Champions.
Krishna Sarda, Engaging Communities Manager at Diabetes UK, said:
“Type 2 diabetes is a serious health condition which, left undiagnosed or untreated, can lead to devastating health complications such as stroke, blindness and amputation. However, identified and managed well this doesn’t have to be the case.
“Our Community Champions are making a hugely positive difference, getting people to take Type 2 diabetes more seriously, giving them the best chance of living long, healthy lives. With the help of our celebrity supporters we hope more people will volunteer to help us share this message.”
