Skip to Content

FAQs Diabetes

What is Type 2 diabetes?

It develops when the insulin producing cells in the body are unable to produce enough insulin. Alternatively, it can be when the insulin that is produced does not work properly.

What is insulin?

Insulin is a hormone. It helps your body use the glucose in your blood to give you energy.

Is Type 1 diabetes preventable?

No, you cannot prevent type 1 diabetes. However, around 3 in every 5 cases of type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented.

What are the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes?

Sometimes there won’t be any symptoms, so it’s important you have a blood check with your GP to establish if you are at risk.

Am I at risk of getting type 2 diabetes?

There are various factors that make people “at risk”. These include your age, your genetics and your weight. If you are over 40 (or over 25 for people from South Asian communities), if you have a close relative with the condition and if you are overweight you could be at risk of getting type 2 diabetes.  To find out more about whether you’re at risk click here.

How can I reduce my risk of getting Type 2 diabetes?

Making lifestyle changes including healthy eating, losing weight and taking plenty of exercise can all help you prevent type 2 diabetes. Find out more here.

What services are available to help me prevent Type 2 diabetes?

If you know you are at risk of getting type 2 diabetes, Healthy Sandwell have a specialist programme to help you reduce your risk. Fill in the referral form or ring the team on 0800 011 4656 for further information.
If you want to access other services to help you get fit, eat more healthily and maintain a healthy weight, visit our other services.


Still need help?

Send an enquiry to our friendly Healthy Sandwell team.

Contact us