CAMPAIGNERS are calling on the government to do more to tackle childhood obesity after it was revealed the number of people diagnosed with diabetes in Dorset has risen.

New analysis from Diabetes UK shows that the number of cases has increased from 42,673 to 44,177 since last year.

In the UK 3.9 million people are currently living with a diagnosis, and 90 per cent of those with type 2.

In addition, it is suggested there are almost a million more living with type 2 diabetes, but haven’t been diagnosed yet.

People with type 2 diabetes are 50 per cent more likely to die prematurely than those without the condition. A common complication of diabetes that can lead to early death is heart disease.

The data shows a stark increase in the number of people living with a diabetes diagnosis in the UK of more than 100,000 from last year.

While not every case of type 2 diabetes is associated with excessive weight, it is the single greatest risk factor. Age, family history, and ethnicity can also contribute to someone’s risk.

Obesity in England has almost doubled in the last 20 years from 6.9 to 13 million, yet Diabetes UK claims Government action to tackle obesity appears to have stalled.

The organisation is calling on the Government to honour a manifesto commitment to tackle childhood obesity and make it a top priority. It is also calling on the Government and NHS England to continue their focus on preventing devastating complications, through better care.

Phaedra Perry, Diabetes UK South West Regional Head, said: “Type 2 diabetes is an urgent public health crisis, and solving it depends on decisive action that’s led by government, supported by industry and delivered across our society.

“More than half of all cases of type 2 diabetes − and the accompanying risk of developing devastating complications − could be prevented or delayed by supporting people to make healthier choices.

“At the same time, we need to help people understand their personal risk of type 2 diabetes and find tailored clinical support to reduce it. The Government promised to tackle obesity, and it’s time for them to deliver on this promise."

Find out more about the risk factors for type 2 diabetes and what you can do to reduce your risk at www.diabetes.org.uk