South Shields Town Hall turns blue to mark World Diabetes Day

The historic South Shields Town Hall was one of many buildings across the world which glowed blue on Monday to support the campaign and raise awareness of the condition, which affects one in 11 adults worldwide.

This year's global campaign 'Eyes on Diabetes' aims to promote the importance of screening to ensure early diagnosis of type-two diabetes and treatment to reduce the risk of serious complications.

The Mayoress of South Tyneside, Coun Moira Smith, carried out the official lighting of the Town Hall and was joined by representatives of the charity Diabetes UK.

Coun Smith said: “It is wonderful that our iconic South Shields Town Hall has taken part in this globally significant campaign.

"We are keen to lend our support to such a worthy cause and to help raise awareness of this life changing disease.

“Bathing the Town Hall in blue will hopefully inspire people to find out more about and get them talking about this important issue.”

About 9,000 people aged over 17 in South Tyneside have diabetes.

However, early detection and timely treatment can prevent serious risks including visual impairment and blindness.

Coun Tracey Dixon, lead member for independence and wellbeing at South Tyneside Council, said: “Diabetes is a growing problem which is affecting more and more people in the borough.

"It is a disease that brings huge challenges to those diagnosed with the condition and can cause serious health problems, especially if left undetected.

“By adopting a healthy lifestyle and being able to spot the early signs of diabetes, people can reduce the risks associated with this disease.

"We hope local people will take steps to reduce their risks but I would encourage anyone worried about this issue to see their local GP.”

Diabetes UK is the leading UK charity that campaigns on behalf of all people affected by and at risk of diabetes.

Clare Allom, lead campaigner of the South Tyneside Diabetes UK group, said: “We in this area realise just how important it is to raise awareness of diabetes, which is an unrelenting, unforgiving condition.

“There is a lot of proactive work taking place across the region to address this disease including research at Newcastle University into how type-one diabetes can be reversed.

"There is also a lot of work within the community including South Tyneside residents coming together to produce a DVD to help inform everyone on how to prevent the onset of type-two diabetes.”

Diabetes UK recommends that those with diabetes should have regular health checks including foot, kidney, heart and eyesight screening to help manage their condition and enjoy long and healthy lives, free from serious complications.

For more information on all aspects of diabetes please visit www.diabetes.org.uk or contact Ian Leonard from the South Tyneside Diabetes UK Group, who campaign for better services for all those affected by type-one and type-two diabetes, on (0191) 455 8975 or email [email protected].