Featured in The West Australian - Your Health Checks

If you have a family history of diabetes it’s important to prioritise regular health checks.

 
Health checks at Pharmacy 777 allow for early detection of the potential risk factors and warning signs associated with Type 2 diabetes.
 
This early detection provides an opportunity for intervention and lifestyle modifications that can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
 
Pharmacy 777 Pharmacist Kartier Falkenberg said many people with Type 2 diabetes don’t experience symptoms at first, remaining undiagnosed for years often resulting in complications.
 
“Health checks can help assess someone’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes based on factors such as family history, age, ethnicity, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, blood pressure, and lipid levels,” Kartier said.
 
“These important checks can help us identify people who may require further screening or preventive measures by evaluating risk factors. 
 
“Regular health checks provide an opportunity to educate people about healthy lifestyle strategies that can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. As a community pharmacy conducting these checks, we’re in a position to be able to provide people with personalised guidance and support based on their health status, goals and needs.”
 
Diabetes is currently the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia.
 
There is also evidence of an increased risk of new-onset diabetes following the pandemic with the largest increase in National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) registrations from September 2021-September 2022, than any previous 12 months recorded. The biggest increase was found among people with gestational diabetes. 
 
Pharmacists are ideally positioned to assist those living with diabetes through education, care, and support.
 
“For people already diagnosed with prediabetes or identified as being at high risk, regular health checks can help monitor their progress and response to interventions and treatment plans.,” Kartier added.
 
“It also enables timely adjustments to be made by their healthcare providers.
 
“A health check also allows us to monitor other health conditions that often coexist with Type 2 diabetes including hypertension, and screen for the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. 
 
Pharmacy 777 Health Checks are designed to identify the early warning signs of chronic diseases and help you stay healthy. You’ll receive instant results and an assessment of your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease over the next five years.
 
Diabetes: the facts
• 1,500,000 people are currently living with diabetes in Australia. 
• 120,000 people are diagnosed with diabetes every year.
• 400,000 people are at a high risk of developing diabetes.
• Diabetes contributes to 10% of all deaths in Australia.