We now know that compromised health poses a greater risk factor in the severity of Covid-19 disease. However, some people are unaware they’re at risk and have undiagnosed conditions like diabetes.
Do you know the symptoms of diabetes or what causes it?
We chatted with University of Queensland’s Dr Kirsty Short about all things diabetes and preventative health care as well as a new research study they are conducting and… they’re looking for candidates.
They are running a research study examining the link between diabetes and COVID-19 and... are currently recruiting people who have recovered from COVID-19 who either ‘have’ and ‘don’t have' diabetes for their study, to be considered as a candidate contact covid.diabetesStudy@mater.org.au or visit the website,
To find out more about the Mater Queensland Diabetes and Endocrine Centre (QDEC), you can visit the website or call 07 3163 2500 - referrals to the centre can be made through a GP
To find out more about the Mater High Risk Foot Clinic visit here and referrals to the clinic can be made through a GP.
Meet Dr Helen Barrett is an Endocrinologist with the Mater Queensland Diabetes and Endocrine Centre (QDEC), she is working on some exciting research projects related to COVID-19 and the impact the virus has on people with diabetes.
Diabetes Fast Facts
- Diabetes impact on the Australian health system is significant as diabetes-related complications account for 10% of hospital admissions
- Diabetes alone costs the Australian healthcare system between $2-3 billion dollars each year
- 6% of Australian’s have type two diabetes with around 280 people newly diagnosed each day
- symptoms of diabetes can include: sudden weight loss, increased thirst, frequent urination and blurred vision plus other factors can include lifestyle and family history
- it is important to raise awareness of this disease, so people understand if diabetes is picked up early it can be managed very successfully with minimal impact on a person’s overall health
- people can take care of themselves by eating healthily, exercising and having regular check-ups with their doctor to monitor for risk factors
- a simple blood test will detect diabetes so if you do develop symptoms see your doctor
for further info on diabetes, please visit Diabetes Australia