Older Jews at twice the risk of diabetes
Jewish News and Jewish Blind and Disabled launch campaign as study reveals threat far higher than wider population
Research suggesting that around one in six British Jews over the age of 65 are living with diabetes has prompted the launch of a new awareness campaign by Jewish News and Jewish Blind and Disabled (JBD).
According to research commissioned by JBD from the Institute for Jewish Policy Research (JPR), around 17 percent of Jewish people over the age of 65 reported through GP Patient Survey data in 2020 that they are living with diabetes, compared with around 8 percent of the wider population.
The charity said the findings highlighted the growing impact of type 2 diabetes within the Jewish community, particularly given Britain’s comparatively older Jewish demographic profile.
The campaign, launched in partnership with Jewish News, aims to raise awareness of diabetes prevention, symptoms and long-term health risks.
Across the UK, nearly 4.4 million people are living with diabetes, while millions more are considered at increased risk of developing the condition or may be living undiagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes can lead to serious complications, including sight loss, amputations, kidney disease, cardiovascular problems and reduced mobility. Around 160 amputations take place every week in the UK because of diabetes-related complications.
Lisa Wimborne, Chief Executive at JBD, said: “Type 2 diabetes is one of the most serious and growing health challenges of our time. In the UK alone, nearly one in 15 people are living with diabetes, with millions more at increased risk or living with prediabetes. The impact can be devastating – from sight loss to mobility issues.
“Within the Jewish community, this issue is particularly pressing. Our population has an older age profile, and we know that the prevalence of type 2 diabetes rises sharply with age. That means more people living with complex, long-term health conditions.
“Many people attending our sight loss groups are living with diabetes and, over the last few years, we have noticed an increase in the number of people coming to us in need of housing following diabetes-related amputations.
“At Jewish Blind and Disabled, we see firsthand how diabetes can change lives. This campaign is about raising awareness, encouraging earlier action and ensuring that people at increased risk, or already living with type 2 diabetes, receive the information and support they need.”
JBD launched a community consultation last month aimed at gathering views on how individuals and organisations could better support diabetes education, prevention and management within the Jewish community.
The charity is also planning two free information evenings in June focused on diabetes awareness and long-term health management.
Community members do not need to have diabetes to take part in the survey or attend the events.
This article forms part of Jewish News and JBD’s ongoing awareness campaign, which will run over the coming weeks exploring prevention, lived experiences and practical health advice within the Jewish community.
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