GP Dr Roger Henderson provides an overview of the chronic complications of diabetes and the key preventive measures undertaken in primary care
Module summary
Diabetes can lead to a range of chronic complications if it is not well managed. These complications occur due to prolonged periods of high blood sugar levels. Prolonged poorly controlled blood glucose levels can damage the blood vessels, nerves and various organs. Understanding these risks and adopting preventive measures can help mitigate these potential long-term health issues. The NHS spends at least £10 billion a year on diabetes – around 10% of its entire budget – and almost 80% of this money is spent on treating the complications of diabetes.1
This module discusses the common chronic complications linked to diabetes and how nurses are key to optimising care to reduce the risk of complications developing or progressing.
Learning objectives
By the end of this module, you will have a greater understanding of:
- Some of the key chronic complications of diabetes and why they occur.
- Diabetes preventive measures and how they work including lifestyle and dietary changes.
- How nurses are important in promotion of education and self-care.
- What diabetes monitoring is required and how regularly.
- The role of nurses in diabetes reviews.
Author: Dr Roger Henderson is a GP in Scotland
Date published: 30.01.2025
Reference
- Diabetes UK. How many people in the UK have diabetes?
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