Indigenous Australians are almost four times as likely to develop diabetes or pre-diabetes, according to a statement by Diabetes Australia as part of national diabetes week commencing today.
According to the organisation, both type 1 and 2 diabetes are being diagnosed too late in indigenous and Torres Strait islander persons, with the delay putting many at risk of developing life-threatening health problems such as strokes, kidney failure and heart attacks.
The organisation says maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in exercise will help people to remain at a healthy weight to keep their glucose levels in check.