MORE than half of people in the south west who are diagnosed with severe mental illness and type 2 diabetes are not receiving vital health checks, according to analysis by Diabetes UK.

Of the 5,280 people diagnosed with both conditions in the region, only 44% receive annual reviews that may help prevent the serious complications of diabetes. The NHS advises that all individuals with diabetes are given the eight tests recommended by NICE, which include blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol and foot checks.

If it is not well managed, type 2 diabetes can cause heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and amputation, leading to disability and premature mortality. The checks advised by NICE can highlight whether someone is at risk of or in the early stages of developing these complications; if signs are found, treatment can be offered to prevent or delay harmful effects to the blood vessels, kidneys and nerves.

People with severe mental illness are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than the general population, and Diabetes UK is therefore calling for better integration of mental health and diabetes care.

Phaedra Perry, the regional head of Diabetes UK for the south west, said: "The health system should recognise that long term physical and mental health conditions often occur together and provide care that focuses on the whole person rather than a single condition. We need to bridge the divide between physical and mental health services to ensure those with severe mental illness and type 2 diabetes do not have their physical care needs overlooked. It is critical that all care sees the whole person, and provides integrated support."

The charity believe the standard of care can be improved by ensuring that mental health professionals who care for people with diabetes understand how the condition is managed and recognise the impact it can have on physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing. They should also be made aware of the specific mental health problems that can arise because of diabetes, such as diabetes distress.

Diabetes affects 4.6 million people in the UK, and occurs when there is too much glucose in the blood. Around 90% of people with diabetes have type 2, which develops due to lifestyle factors, family history, age and ethnic background. Type 2 diabetes is treated with a healthy diet, increased physical activity, medication and/or insulin.

For more information about the condition and Diabetes UK's campaign on mental health, It's Missing, visit www.diabetes.org.uk