New research has revealed that only a small percentage of the British public are aware of how life-changing the condition can be.

A new survey by Walnut Unlimited, which spoke to 1,000 people with and without a link to diabetes showed the extent of this lack of awareness, with only two per percent spontaneously saying a stroke, kidney damage (four per cent) and heart disease (six per cent) are complications of diabetes.

Analysis from Diabetes UK shows the number of people being diagnosed with diabetes has doubled in the last 20 years. There are now 3.7 million people in the UK living with a diabetes diagnosis (90 per cent have Type 2 diabetes) and around 12.3 million people are at an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes. The condition now affects more people than any other serious health condition in the UK – more than dementia and cancer combined.

However, diabetes-related complications can be prevented or delayed with early diagnosis, support and education to ensure the condition is managed correctly. To support this, Diabetes UK has launched a new campaign called ‘Be in the know’ which aims to raise awareness of the devastating complications associated with diabetes.

Annika Palmer, Diabetes UK south west regional head, said: “Losing a limb, eyesight or having a stroke is devastating and often life-changing. It is vital people with diabetes receive the right support from their healthcare teams to help them identify any early signs of a complication.

“Many complications can be prevented or delayed so it is incredibly important that people with diabetes are vigilant and contact their GP as soon as possible if they have any concerns.”

For more information, visit diabetes.org.uk/beintheknow