A VOLUNTEER from Hillingdon has become a Community Champion for Diabetes UK.

Misbah Latif, 68, took on the role as she wants to highlight the seriousness of Type 2 diabetes and help residents understand their risk of developing the condition.

Community champions organise stalls, talks, presentations and healthy living days at community centres, health fairs and festivals. 

They receive training on what Type 2 diabetes is, who is at risk, the signs and symptoms, myths and misconceptions, complications and NHS services.

Misbah, retired and living in Ruslip, was diagnosed with the condition several years ago.

She said: “My mother passed away from complications of Type 2 diabetes.

READ MORE: Letter: foxes are real problem

READ MORE: Musician gives England new World Cup song

"When I was younger, I didn’t know that people of Pakistani/Bangladeshi origins were twice as likely to develop it and that it can cause devastating complications.

“Then, when I was pregnant, I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, which is a warning sign of increased risk of diabetes. I always tried to be active and eat well, but after several years I was diagnosed with Type 2.

“Now, I want to pass on what I have learned to other people and what they can do to help themselves.”

If not managed well, Type 2 can lead to sight loss, lower limb amputation, kidney failure and stroke.

People from African-Caribbean, Black African, or South Asian backgrounds can be two to four times more likely than average to develop it, yet simple lifestyle changes can dramatically reduce the risk of developing the condition or help manage it well.

https://www.diabetes.org.uk/get_involved/volunteer/community-champions