Number of diabetics in South West more than doubles, according to charity

The number of people in the South West suffering with diabetes has more than doubled, according to Diabetes UK.

Following the charity's recent survey, it has been estimated that almost five million people have diabetes across the country. Yet, not everyone is aware that they have the illness.

Plymouth Argyle Defender Niall Canavan, 27, was only diagnosed with diabetes in January 2019, despite a career in sport.

After going to doctors, Niall was diagnosed with the type 1 diabetes, an inherited condition. He described being diagnosed as a relief, as it has allowed him to manage his condition, and understand his symptoms.

Those with type one diabetes like Niall represent just one in ten of those who have the illness, with the majority suffering from type two.

It is thought that as many as one million people are unaware that they have type two diabetes, a condition brought on by poor diet and a lack of exercise.

A spokesperson for Diabetes UK has warned that the UK is seeing an increase in the number of people diagnosed with both type one and type two diabetes.

People like Niall who have recently been diagnosed are encouraging others to get tested.

Niall warned that his symptoms included fatigue, weight-loss and the frequent need to go to the toilet in the night.

Diabetes UK are also encouraging people to get checked.