National Diabetes Week runs from 13–19 July 2025, offering a vital opportunity to raise awareness about diabetes, its growing impact across Australia, and the steps we can all take to prevent and manage this chronic condition. Recent data reveals that approximately 6.6% of Australian adults are now living with diabetes, a significant increase from 5.1% a decade ago, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness, early detection, and lifestyle intervention.
Below, we explore the different types of diabetes, signs to watch for, and practical ways to lower your risk and support your overall health.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic condition characterised by high blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia) due to the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels.
There are several types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Develops over time as the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin.
- Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
- Pre-diabetes: A condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
- Excessive thirst or hunger
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss (Type 1) or gradual weight gain (Type 2)
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing cuts
- Itchy skin or frequent skin infections
Type 1 diabetes often manifests quickly, while Type 2 diabetes may present no symptoms or go unnoticed for an extended period.
Prevention and Management
Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through healthy lifestyle choices:
- Healthy Eating: Adopt a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Regular Physical Activity: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Regular Health Checks: Monitor blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol regularly.
Early diagnosis is crucial to reduce the risk of complications. Many individuals with diabetes are unaware they have the condition, making regular screenings essential. Your GP can assess your risk and recommend appropriate screening tests.
Take Action This National Diabetes Week
If you are experiencing symptoms of diabetes or have concerns about your risk, make an appointment with your Family Doctors Plus GP. Early treatment helps reduce serious complications. Call us on 07 3357 8192 or book online.