Living well with diabetes event in Geelong

Diabetes Victoria is hosting a Living Well with Diabetes Victoria event in Geelong on February 24.

This Geelong event will comprise of two separate seminars, specifically tailored to people living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

The type 1 session will connect attendees with leading diabetes health professionals, product suppliers and local health services, among others. Sessions will include discussions about flash glucose monitoring, type 1 diabetes, emotional health and the role of protein and fat in a healthy diet.

The type 2 session will focus on diabetes management, mindful eating and how to incorporate exercise into everyday life.

Diabetes Victoria chief executive officer Craig Bennett said there were almost 320,000 Victorians living with Diabetes.

“There is an increasing need to provide expert advice on how to live well with this challenging condition.

“We’ve listened to feedback about the need to take our events to regional cities in order to better connect with and support people living with diabetes across our state.”

There are currently over 13,000 people living with diabetes in the Greater Geelong local government area who are registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme.

The vast majority (87 per cent) live with type 2 diabetes, while 10 per cent live with type 1 diabetes.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, diabetes will shortly become the number one single burden of disease in Australia.

“Diabetes increases a person’s risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision and loss of limb, but a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of these life-threatening complications,” Mr Bennett said.

Living Well with Diabetes Victoria will be held at Rydges Geelong, Corner of Myers and Gheringhap Streets.

The Type 1 session will be held from 8am-2pm. The Type 2 session will run from 8am-12.30pm or 1.30pm-5pm.

Morning tea, lunch and refreshments are included.

The cost is free for Diabetes Victoria members, $20 for non-members and guests, and $15 early-bird rate available until Friday February 16.

Places are limited, so bookings are essential.

Phone 1300 136 588 or head to diabetesvic.org.au/living-well.