In a major win for Australia’s diabetes community, the International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region (IDF WPR) Congress 2026 will be held in Melbourne, led by Australia’s leading diabetes organisations.

The Congress is the region’s most significant diabetes event and will be held in conjunction with the Australasian Diabetes Congress (ADC). The events will be co-hosted by Diabetes Australia, Australian Diabetes Society and Australian Diabetes Educators Association.

The event is expected to attract more than 2,500 global leaders in diabetes care, research, education and advocacy to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre over four days from August 18-21. Delegates will include clinicians, researchers, policy experts, educators and people living with diabetes from across the Western Pacific, the IDF’s largest and most affected region.

With 215 million adults in the Western Pacific now living with diabetes, which is the fastest-growing chronic condition in Australia, the Congress will serve as a critical platform for accelerating action, shaping policy and forging new collaborations to improve outcomes for people living with or at risk of diabetes.

“This Congress could not come at a more urgent time for Australians living with diabetes,” said Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain.

“Globally, one person is diagnosed with diabetes every 3 seconds. In Australia, more than 300 people are diagnosed every day.

“The impact of this costly condition is being felt across the nation. Hosting this Congress sends a clear message: diabetes is a national and global health emergency, and we are committed to working with the world’s best minds to deliver impact and innovation.”

“This congress is a chance to hear and learn from world-leading researchers, clinicians and health professionals. It will elevate the voices of people living with diabetes and shape policies that will save lives and reduce the burden of diabetes on our health system,” Ms Cain said.

Diabetes costs the Australian health system around $14.6 billion each year. Experts warn that without coordinated action the economic and social toll will continue to escalate.

Associate Professor Sof Andrikopoulos, CEO of the Australian Diabetes Society, said the Western Pacific region is at the epicentre of the global diabetes crisis.

“This Congress is an opportunity to showcase the latest research and evidence-based innovations in prevention, treatment and management. From cutting-edge therapeutics to integrated models of care, the program will support practical outcomes for health systems and people living with diabetes.”

“Australian researchers are already leading the way in diabetes technology and clinical practice. The Congress will foster the critical exchange of knowledge across borders and disciplines.”

Australian Diabetes Educators Association CEO Susan Davidson said credentialled diabetes educators (CDEs) and other health professionals from around the region would gather in Melbourne for the Congress which is an important professional learning opportunity.

“There is an urgent need in Australia and the Western Pacific region for better access to CDE services and hosting this conference in Melbourne will enable health professionals in the region to learn about the latest and most significant developments in diabetes management and care, as well as develop their professional networks and knowledge-share with their regional colleagues.”   

“Aligning the IDF Congress with ADC will continue to ensure CDEs and other health professionals have access to the most up to date advice for people living with diabetes,” Ms Davidson said.

The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) joined in the successful bid for the IDF WPR Congress, with support from the Victorian Government and Tourism Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund Program.

A groundbreaking new partnership between Diabetes Australia and nib foundation will improve the lives of people living with both diabetes and disability.

The three-year initiative is one of the projects made possible by nib foundation’s recent Better Health Partner grant. Funds will enhance support for disability caregivers, equipping them with the specialised knowledge and practical skills needed to provide safe and effective diabetes care.

With this support from nib foundation, Diabetes Australia will kickstart the Safely Injecting Insulin program. The pilot program will train disability support workers so they have the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to safely inject insulin.  

Diabetes Australia Group CEO, Justine Cain, said the partnership represents a significant shift towards a more integrated and fairer model of care.

“We know that people living with both diabetes and disability face unique health challenges, and unfortunately, they often have limited access to appropriately trained carers,” Ms Cain said.

“This partnership with nib foundation will change lives by ensuring that people receive the right care at the right time, improving their overall health and quality of life.

“This initiative will also ease pressure on health professionals and the broader health system by ensuring that disability support workers have the confidence and skills to support a person living with diabetes.”

The goal is to ensure it becomes standard for every person living with diabetes and disability to have access to appropriately qualified carers. This will enable more timely and personalised care, reduce preventable complications, and create better overall health outcomes.

nib foundation CEO, Amy Tribe, emphasised the foundation’s commitment to reducing the burden of chronic disease and improving equitable access to care.

“Our vision at nib foundation is for all people to live longer in better health, and that means supporting innovative initiatives that enable prevention and health equity. This partnership with Diabetes Australia aligns with our mission to reduce disparities in healthcare and improve support for those who need it most,” Ms Tribe said.

“Working with the national peak body for people living with diabetes, we’re confident this partnership between Diabetes Australia and nib foundation will create real impact.

“By investing in partnerships that focus on early intervention and better health outcomes, we can help transform the healthcare experience for vulnerable populations, including people living with both diabetes and a disability.”

Over the long term, nib foundation and Diabetes Australia hope to use the pilot program’s data to build a compelling case for making the training an industry standard. 

About nib foundation

nib foundation was created in 2008 as an independent charitable trust following a $25 million donation from nib. These funds were raised through the issue of new shares at the time of listing nib on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) in November 2007. Today, nib continues to support our mission of helping people and communities live healthier lives by providing unclaimed dividends from their shareholder base.

For more information: nib foundation

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information: Diabetes Australia

New research from the University of Sydney reveals that the number of Australians living with diabetes may be up to 35 per cent higher than previously estimated.

The findings raise critical questions about the size of one of Australia’s most serious chronic health conditions.

The study, published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, applied a sophisticated algorithm to integrated health data from Medicare, hospital records, and pharmaceutical claims. The results suggest there could be more than two million Australians living with diabetes, many of whom are currently missing from the official diabetes register.

Lead author Emma Cox, PhD Candidate from the Leeder Centre for Health Policy, Economics and Data, said the research highlights a much larger and more diverse population living with diabetes, particularly older Australians, people in remote areas, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

“This isn’t just a data issue, it’s a public health issue,” Ms Cox said. “A significant number of Australians are missing from national statistics. That makes it harder to plan services, allocate funding, and deliver prevention strategies where they’re most needed.”

The research was partially funded in 2017 by a Diabetes Australia Research Trust grant and builds on longstanding calls for better integration of medical data to understand the true burden of chronic disease.

Professor Grant Brinkworth, Director of Research at Diabetes Australia, said the findings offer a compelling call to action.

“This study tells us what many of us in the sector have said for years: we’re not seeing the full picture of diabetes in Australia,” Professor Brinkworth said. “Understanding the true scale is essential if we want to improve outcomes for individuals and manage the national impact of this condition.”

The study also found that many people who are living with diabetes are managing the condition through lifestyle changes or medications like metformin, groups who may be less likely to register with the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS).

“If people aren’t visible in the data, they’re also invisible to policy and funding decisions,” Professor Brinkworth added.

The research reinforces the importance of improved screening, earlier diagnosis, and greater health system integration to ensure every person affected by diabetes is counted, supported, and resourced.

Diabetes Australia is committed to working with the Australian Government and health sector to ensure barriers to registration are removed with appropriate investment in the NDSS to enable timely registration and accurate reporting.

Read the full study: Is the burden of diabetes in Australia underestimated? – Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is urging the diabetes community to remain alert following the detection of counterfeit Ozempic-labelled injection pens at the Australian border. These fake products pose a serious risk to health and should not be used under any circumstances.

Although the counterfeit pens closely resemble genuine Ozempic 1mg products, they are falsely labelled with the batch number MPSD916, which has been confirmed as non-genuine by the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk. In addition to the fake batch number, typographic inconsistencies, such as altered text spacing and bolding, have been noted on the packaging.

These counterfeit medicines have not been assessed for quality, safety, or efficacy under Australian law. They may contain incorrect or harmful ingredients, and their use can result in serious side effects or adverse health outcomes. This latest alert is separate from a previous incident in September 2024, which involved counterfeit Ozempic pens found to contain insulin.

Diabetes Australia is reminding people to only purchase medications from legitimate Australian pharmacies. Medicines purchased online or from overseas sources may be fake and are not covered under the Personal Importation Scheme. Importing or supplying counterfeit therapeutic goods is illegal and endangers public health.

If you have a product marked with batch number MPSD916, do not use it. Take it to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. If you experience any symptoms after using an Ozempic product, seek medical advice immediately and report the issue to the TGA.

We urge the community to stay vigilant. Always verify product claims with trusted sources and avoid purchasing medications or devices from unknown online sellers.

For more information, visit the TGA website or contact Diabetes Australia at info@diabetesaustralia.com.au.

In December 2024, we, Diabetes Australia, announced a $40 million investment commitment to diabetes research over the next decade – the largest ever commitment to diabetes research by a non-government funder in Australia.

Diabetes Australia’s leadership of research into all aspects of diabetes is crucial as the national peak body, representing the approximately 2 million Australians living with all types of diabetes and those at significant risk.

Over the past 100+ years, research has led to better understanding and the development of new technologies and medicines that have transformed the lives of people living with all types of diabetes.

But there is more to do.

The number of Australians living with diabetes continues to rise, including a 33 percent increase in people living with type 2 diabetes over the past decade. Diabetes complications continue to have a devastating impact on people’s lives and the health system. There remains the imperative to build on the valiant efforts and investment to-date to find a cure for type 1 diabetes.

Despite this great need to do more, funding for diabetes research has declined by more than 36 percent over the past decade.

Our commitment, which we will use to expand and extend the combined research efforts of the entire Australian research ecosystem – universities, private sector and government, seeks to address this erosion of funding. Working in collaboration with partners, we believe that we can have a profound and significant impact on Australia’s world-class diabetes research sector and to meaningfully contribute to the life changing benefits that it can achieve.

Future-focussed strategic approach to research

Diabetes Australia has been listening to the research sector and the millions of people living with diabetes and those at risk whose lives we are collectively striving to improve.
We have an ambitious goal – to eliminate the impact of diabetes on Australians. We want people living longer, healthier lives, and to ultimately work with the sector (both domestically and internationally) to find a cure.

Research is the only pathway to a ‘cure’ – whether through outright prevention, elimination of the condition or fully effective and seamless management of its impacts.

Following extensive consultation during 2024, we will soon release a new research strategy for diabetes in Australia, that is aligned with feedback from across the sector and importantly includes the feedback of Australians living with diabetes, and those at risk. Our ambitious approach to research responds to the challenges being faced by the sector and will harness the opportunities new technologies like artificial intelligence promise.

Our very significant financial commitment and fresh strategy will drive research to positively change the lives of people living with diabetes, including by:

• Investing in the diabetes research sector across all research areas (basic, clinical, health systems/ services, economic and public health)
• Prioritising investment to address the unmet needs of the diabetes community, and centralising lived experience throughout the research process
• Supporting the career development of early-to-mid career researchers, clinicians, and diabetes educators in order to encourage a thriving, dynamic and globally competitive research community
• Advocating strongly for increased diabetes research funding from government, industry, philanthropy, and donors
• Building capacity of the diabetes research sector that includes leveraging Diabetes Australia’s research investment to amplify research effort and seek greater funding from more sources, including by funding pilot projects leading to larger grants
• Establishing initiatives to grow capacity and collaboration, including upskilling programs and research networks.

Delivering on this future-focussed approach will require new approaches to governance and how we manage our investment to deliver the greatest impact for the sector and to change lives.

2026 research funding opportunities opening soon

In line with our investment commitment and aligned with our refreshed strategic approach to research, Diabetes Australia is pleased to advise that our next round of funding opportunities will be announced on 14 April 2025.

This will include 15 project grants valued at $100,000 each, a range of other grants, partnership awards and scholarships/ fellowship opportunities that will build capacity of the Australian diabetes research sector in alignment with Diabetes Australia’s mission and the priorities and expectations of our donors. This commitment, along with our philanthropic growth endeavours and partnering approach (such as the recently announced partnership with NIB Foundation valued at $750,000), reflects our determination to support and help build a thriving research community in Australia, along with other valued organisations across the diabetes research sector.

Further information on the available research awards opportunities available will be provided on 14 April 2025 via the Diabetes Australia website and Smarty Grants portal.

This next round of funding opportunities is in addition to Diabetes Australia’s initial Diabetes Community Priorities Grants funding round opened in late 2024, and will bring Diabetes Australia’s investment in research over the next 12 months to in excess of $3 million. In alignment with Diabetes Australia’s strategic approach to research, this funding format focuses on addressing the research priorities and unmet needs of people living with diabetes and the diabetes community, facilitating meaningful consumer and community engagement throughout all stages of the research lifecycle and to understand translational impact pathways to improve the lives of people living with diabetes sooner.

Australian diabetes researchers are working to find a cure for diabetes, learn more about prevention and complications management, and ultimately support people with diabetes to live longer, healthier lives.

Diabetes Australia is proud to support our world leading researchers.

Justine Cain
Group Chief Executive Officer
Diabetes Australia

What’s in your first aid kit to help manage a wound, and when should you seek medical attention? Pharmacist and Credentialled Diabetes Educator Donna Itzstein, and Registered Nurse and Credentialled Diabetes Educator Amanda Callaghan, take us through some of the products available and how to use them. 

Skin wounds aren’t really a laughing matter. We all get them, particularly in summer when we tend to wear open-toed shoes and less clothing. Over the years, approaches to wound care have changed — not just the products on the shelf but the way wounds are treated. 

Recognising signs of infection 

Having diabetes can increase your risk of infections, and wounds, cuts and grazes take longer to heal if they become infected.  

It is important you can recognise the signs and symptoms of an infection so you know when to seek prompt medical attention. Technically all wounds and burns should be looked at by your medical team; however, before you can see your health team you can do some basic first aid. 

Head straight to the doctor if you have the following: 

• Bleeding that cannot be controlled, or a wound you think needs stitches  
• You can’t remember when you last had a tetanus injection 
• A wound that fails to heal, ulceration occurs, or if you have had ulcers previously 
• You have callouses on your feet or severely cracked heels, see a podiatrist 
• Wounds that break open or are more than skin deep 
• A wound that is weeping, develops an odour, or appears infected 
• Other symptoms such as bleeding from your mouth, nose, eyes, ears, or genital area 
• A bad headache, loss of consciousness, slurred speech, or blurred vision 
• Redness around the wound that increases in size or becomes more painful and swollen, or you develop a fever 
• Animal bites 
• Burns that are larger than a 20-cent coin or deeper than your first layer of skin, or are on your face or genital area. 

 Your medical team may stitch, staple or glue a wound if: 

• You cannot control the bleeding 
• A foreign object is in the wound 
• The wound is on your face, hands, mouth, or genitals. You may need stitching for cosmetic reasons and proper healing 
• The wound is greater than 6mm deep and you can see yellow fatty tissue or bone 
• If the edges of the wound need to be pulled together to cover a gap of exposed tissue 
• If the open wound is on an area of the body with a lot of movement. 

Wound cleansing 

Your medical team may recommend you use an antiseptic on your wound. An antiseptic on broken skin may reduce the risk of infection. Gently cleansing with saline or tap water (chlorinated or boiled and cooled tank water) can be used to remove dirt, sand, or gravel from a wound such as a graze, skin tear or shallow cut. You don’t usually need an antiseptic as antiseptic can slow healing or restart bleeding. Reserve antiseptic for situations where your skin is broken in the presence of highly infective agents such as another’s bodily fluids, faeces, or rotting matter. Always follow the instructions when using an antiseptic. If the solution is strong, dilute it to avoid burning. If you use a disinfectant wash, leave it on for three to four minutes, and rinse it off with tap water or saline.  

You should only clean the wound yourself once. If you think a wound requires re-cleaning, go to your GP or nurse practitioner. If you need to dry a wound after cleaning, use a product that will not stick or leave lint. Cotton wool can be used for gentle, wet cleaning of the area, but is not suitable for drying. 

Burns and blisters 

Creams, ointments and gels are generally not necessary for healing. The exceptions are burns and skin tears which your medical team may recommend a hydrogel for. Always run a burn under cool water for 20 minutes before doing anything else. For a small burn apply a liberal amount of gel and then apply a dressing. Do not burst a blister as it protects the underlying skin and reduces infection. 

If your wound is clean and not infected, leave it alone. If you want to add an ointment before applying a dressing you could use a povidone iodine such as Betadine, medical grade manuka honey, or a silver dressing to reduce the risk of infection. There is no need to reapply the ointment when you change the dressing. All infected wounds, burns or blisters larger than a 20 cent piece, burns that don’t feel painful, or deep burns regardless of size, will require immediate medical attention. 

Dressings for a wound 

Plastic and fabric strips are a product used for shallow cuts. They can be waterproof and non-waterproof and come in a range of sizes. If a cut is deep or infected see your GP. If you have had ulcers previously, see your healthcare team regardless of the size and depth of the wound. 

Film island dressings, such as Cutifilm Plus or Opsite Post Op, are for shallow cuts or grazes. The island part of the dressing is non-stick and is covered by an adhesive film. The film is waterproof so you can bathe without getting the wound wet. 

Primapore or Cutiplast dressings also have a non-stick wound contact layer but are covered by a stretchy fabric material that can move with body parts such as knees and elbows. Make sure the non-stick part of the dressing is bigger than your wound. Some dressings can be left on for seven days undisturbed to assist healing. These dressings absorb a small amount of weeping but if your wound is weeping larger amounts of fluid see your GP. 

If you have fragile skin the adhesives in island dressings may damage your skin. Instead, try a non-stick dressing such as Melonin or Cutilin. Place the plastic down on the wound and keep in place with a light crepe bandage, a self-adhering wrap such as Primagauze, or E.Z. BAN Wrap Cohesive Elastic Bandage. Wraps and bandages should never be tight enough to restrict blood flow. Allevyn gentle border is also suitable for fragile skin.  

Silicone coated dressings, such as Allevyn and Mepilex, are gentle and minimise pain without sticking to the wound, making them suitable for fragile skin. These are designed to be kept on your wound for a week and can be cost effective compared to multiple dressing changes. 

When to seek medical attention 

If you are not sure about a wound, seek medical attention. Delayed care with wounds and burns can lead to ulcers that are much harder to heal. 

While diabetes is often linked to known types and risk factors, not everyone fits into those categories. Some people develop diabetes due to medications, surgery, or pancreatic damage. Credentialled Diabetes Educator Carolien Koreneff explains in more detail.

Medications

Some medications can increase diabetes risk. While treating serious health conditions is critical, it’s also important to understand how they can trigger diabetes. This is also known as medically-induced diabetes.

Antipsychotics

Atypical Antipsychotic Agents are commonly used to treat mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and psychosis. These medications can increase hunger leading to overeating, weight gain and insulin resistance. Some can also reduce insulin production, leading to higher glucose levels. However, even before these drugs were introduced, diabetes was more common in people with schizophrenia and some other mental health conditions. If you use an antipsychotic medication, it is important to be monitored closely by both a psychiatrist and an endocrinologist.

Beta blockers

Certain heart conditions, high blood pressure, and even glaucoma are treated with beta blockers. However, they have been linked to the development of diabetes and can also hide the signs of hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels or BGLs).

Beta blockers are very important in treating certain heart conditions and are not associated with an increased risk of the development of hypos.

Please discuss any concerns you have with your doctor, before making any changes.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, often called steroids, are hormones that help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. They are used to treat allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, and inflammation. They can also reduce the side effects from treatments such as chemotherapy.

Steroids can raise blood glucose levels as they block the action of insulin, causing insulin resistance. They also cause the liver to release extra glucose into the bloodstream.

Steroid injections may cause a quick rise in glucose levels lasting three to 10 days, while oral steroids cause a slower rise. Inhaled steroids, like asthma puffers, do not affect BGLs.

Long-term steroid use increases the risk of diabetes. Always discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.

Diuretics

Thiazide diuretics help lower blood pressure by removing excess fluid from the body. They are also used to reduce heart problems. Older studies suggested thiazides might increase diabetes risk, but this

risk is reduced in lower doses. As thiazides significantly reduce your risk of heart failure, their benefits outweigh any potential impact on blood glucose levels. Never stop taking them without talking to your doctor.

Statins

Statins lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. High doses may slightly increase diabetes risk, but they are especially important for people with diabetes to prevent heart complications. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of these medications.

Secondary diabetes

Some people develop diabetes due to damage to the pancreas by other causes. These include surgery, cancer and infections such as pancreatitis.

We refer to this type of diabetes as secondary diabetes or type 3c. The treatment of this type of diabetes depends on the cause and the extent of the damage.

Type 3 and type 3c diabetes

The American Diabetes Association and the World Health Organization use type 3 diabetes to cover a wide range of various types of diabetes, including genetic insulin issues and diseases of the pancreas.

The NDSS groups these types as “other diabetes”. The term can be confusing because some use the term type 3 diabetes to describe a possible link between insulin issues in the brain and Alzheimer’s disease; however, this is not an official diagnosis.

Type 3c diabetes happens when the pancreas is damaged and can’t produce insulin, often due to some of the following medical conditions.

Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis can scar the pancreas and prevent the production of enough insulin. Although the pancreas still makes insulin, it is not enough to keep blood glucose levels within a normal range. People with cystic fibrosis may also develop insulin resistance due to steroid treatment and have a higher risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy, needing insulin treatment.

Haemochromatosis

Haemochromatosis, also referred to as bronzed diabetes because of the effect on the skin, is a condition where too much iron is absorbed in the body. The risk of diabetes is increased due to extra iron that is stored in the liver and pancreas, which affects insulin production.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas that can reduce insulin production. It can be acute or chronic. Chronic pancreatitis can be genetic, but is commonly due to gallstones or excessive alcohol use, this can also lead to scarring of your pancreas’ tissues.

This is called fibrosis, and can lead to the pancreas no longer being able to make enzymes and hormones such as insulin. Chronic pancreatitis is the most common cause of type 3c diabetes.

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer can cause cells in your body to become resistant to insulin, resulting in an increase in blood glucose levels. This can also stop the beta cells of the pancreas making more insulin to deal with any insulin resistance. This results in the development of diabetes. About 50% of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer also have diabetes.

Surgery

Surgery puts stress on your body which can raise your blood glucose levels and increase insulin resistance.

Pancreatectomy

A pancreatectomy, the removal of part or all of the pancreas, may be needed because of cysts, cancer, or severe long-term pancreatitis. This surgery often leads to type 3c diabetes. If part of the pancreas remains, it may still produce enough insulin to keep glucose levels in the target range.

But if the entire pancreas is removed, diabetes is almost certain, and most people will need insulin injections.

Whipple’s procedure

The Whipple procedure is a complex, but life-saving surgery used to treat tumours and other conditions in the pancreas, small intestine, and bile ducts. Depending on how much of the pancreas has to be removed, type 3c diabetes may develop.

Diagnosing type 3c diabetes

Type 3c diabetes can be hard to diagnose, and many people are mistakenly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes instead. To diagnose type 3c, your doctor will need to

confirm damage to your pancreas and rule out other types of diabetes. This is done using pancreas-specific blood tests and imaging scans.

Managing type 3c diabetes

Treatment depends on how much of the pancreas is damaged or removed. If some function remains, management is similar to type 2 diabetes. If the pancreas no longer works or is fully removed, insulin treatment similar

to type 1 diabetes is often needed. Regular glucose monitoring is essential to determine if the treatment is working for you. A healthy diet and exercise are key for managing all types of medically- induced forms of diabetes.

If your entire pancreas is removed, you may also need enzyme replacement therapy, to help you absorb important nutrients from your food.

Many people with pancreatic cancer will also need pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) as your pancreas will not start making enzymes again. If you have symptoms despite taking PERT, consult your healthcare provider.

By Hayley Nicholson, Exercise Physiologist, Credentialled Diabetes Educator

As we age, our bone density and muscle mass decreases, which increases the risk of falls and possible fractures. Falls can have a huge impact on mobility and independence, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. Common causes of falls include tripping over raised obstacles, slipping on wet floors, stumbling on stairs, and falling from ladders.

Reduced muscle strength, impaired balance or gait, poor vision, reduced reaction time and the use of multiple medications can all contribute to the risk of a fall. Inappropriate footwear and other environmental hazards can also have an impact, as can diabetes. Diabetes may cause problems with eyesight and reduce feeling in the feet and legs, particularly when blood glucose levels fluctuate quite a bit. This can make it more difficult to move around safely.

An estimated $2.3 billion is spent annually in Australia on treating injuries due to falls experienced by people aged 65 years and older. However, the good news is that most falls are preventable.

Recommendations

Exercise is a great way to reduce the risk of falls but how much and what type of exercise is best?

Exercise programs that include functional balance and muscle strengthening are the most effective in preventing falls. The exercises should be progressively challenging and of sufficient dose to maximise the benefits of reducing falls. It’s important to note that exercise participation needs to be ongoing, as benefits are lost when short-term programs are ceased.

It is recommended that exercises have a moderate to high intensity challenge to balance. That is, an exercise program should include exercises undertaken while standing or transferring weight (as opposed to seated). If possible, exercises should include a narrow base of support (eg: feet close together) but minimise the need for upper body support. Studies that have included exercises with a high challenge to balance for at least three hours per week were found to reduce falls by 40%.

Putting it into practice

Below are some exercises that could help you improve your balance. Before starting any exercise program however, it is important to get medical clearance from your doctor.

Single leg holds

Stand behind a chair on a flat stable surface. Shift your weight onto one foot and lift the other foot off the ground. Gently rest your hands on the back of the chair of required. Maintain this position for as long as possible (you might start with 10-30 seconds initially). As you become more confident, try holding this position for longer. Switch legs and repeat the exercise.

Tandem stand

Stand next to a wall on a flat stable surface. Stand with one foot directly in front of the other, heel to toe. Try to focus on a fixed point in front of you to maintain your balance. Use the wall for support initially, gradually reducing your support as your balance improves. Hold this position for 10-30 seconds. Switch feet and repeat the exercise.

Calf raises

Stand behind a chair on a flat stable surface. Lift your heels off the ground and slowly lower them back  to the starting position. Count two seconds to rise and two seconds to lower. Use the chair for support initially, gradually reducing your support as your balance improves Repeat 10 times.

Step ups

Step onto a raised platform (step) with one foot, pushing through your heel to lift yourself onto the step. Bring your other foot up so both feet are on the step. Step down with the leading foot, then the other, in a controlled manner back to the starting position. Repeat 10 times leading with each foot.

Sit to stands

Sit on a sturdy chair with your feet shoulder width apart and toes pointing forward. Place your arms across your chest. Lean forward, push through your heels and stand up. Slowly lower yourself back into the chair. Repeat 10 times.

The above exercises can be progressed by increasing the number of repetitions or changing the surface. Alternatively, the exercise can be made easier by utilizing the chair or wall for additional support.

This video show some useful exercises for building balance. If you are a beginner take it slowly and do half the number of repetitions of each exercise.

Other tips for preventing falls

In addition to increasing your balance through exercise, it’s also important to create a safe environment in and around your home. This might include ensuring you have adequate lighting, removing trip hazards like floor mats and electrical cords, installing grab rails, reducing clutter and wearing appropriate footwear. It could also be a good opportunity to have your eyes, hearing and feet checked if it’s been a little while since they were assessed. If you have experienced a few falls in the past, remember there are also lots of assistive devices available for extra support, such as walking sticks and wheelie walkers.

Need some assistance?

If you would like to reduce your risk of falls and you’re not sure where to start, you can reach out to your doctor for a referral to an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, under a diabetes care plan. They can assess your capabilities and limitations, review your medical history and formulate an appropriate exercise program tailored to you. If exercise is new to you, this is a great way to build your confidence under supervision so that you can participate safely on your own in the comfort of your own home.

References

Exercise is Medicine website – falls prevention https://exerciseismedicine.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/EIM-FactSheet_Falls-Prevention_Professionals.pdf
Tiedeman, A. et.al (2024). Exercise and Sports Science Australia updated position statement on exercise for preventing falls in older people living in the community, Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2024.09.003

For many of us, Easter is a time to get together with family and friends and enjoy delicious food, including chocolate. But if you’re worried about overindulging, don’t stress. With a bit of planning, preparation, and creativity, it is possible to enjoy food festivities without going overboard. Check out these simple tips to make this Easter both enjoyable and nourishing.

Have a plan

For many of us, it is a busy period leading up to the Easter long weekend with little time to plan and shop for groceries. This may result in making unhealthy food choices.

Tip: Write a shopping list for the meals you will be preparing plus any party food for entertainment. It is surprising how much money you can save by cooking meals using wholefood and relying less on packaged foods.

Start the day right

Rather than reaching for chocolate on Easter morning, start the day with a low GI, sustaining breakfast. This will not only keep you feeling satisfied and energised, but it can also help control the urge to snack on chocolate all day!

Tip: Try some of these easy to prepare low GI breakfasts:

• Two eggs served with one slice low GI or low carb toast and top with sautéed veggies e.g. mushrooms, tomatoes, spinach
• Try this all in one, protein rich brekkie Easy Shakshuka Recipe | Diabetes Australia
• Brekkie smoothie – One cup milk of your choice, ¼ cup oats, one serve fruit e.g. ½ banana or ½ cup berries, one tablespoon seeds/nuts or 100% peanut butter. Blend!
• Coco-Berry Chia Pudding Recipe | Diabetes Australia

Smart snacking

Hot-cross buns are a delicious snack for many of us during the Easter period. The problem is that supermarkets now stock hot-cross buns well before and after the holiday period, making it tempting to add them to our shopping basket each week. Most commercial hot-cross buns are made with high GI refined flour and contain a lot of carbohydrate so they are not an ideal everyday choice.

Tip: Try our mini hot cross bun recipe to bake over the Easter long weekend. Alternatively, limit how many hot cross buns you buy i.e. buy only for Easter Sunday.

Easy entertaining

With a little creativity and planning, you can still serve party food that is easy to prepare, healthy and delicious.

Tip: Try these party platter ideas based on whole foods that will add colour to the table and be sure to impress.

• Raw or roasted nuts, any kind.
• Hummus stuffed eggs. Cut boiled eggs in half, lengthways. Place yolks in a bowl and mash with a few tablespoons of hummus. Spoon back in the eggs.
• Celebrate with seafood such as fresh cooked prawns, oysters, smoked salmon, or trout served with lemon wedges
• A variety of cheese and meat served on a platter. Add fresh strawberries and grapes
• Sushi and sashimi
• Rice paper rolls
• Whole olives
• Grilled, marinated eggplant, red capsicum and semi dried tomatoes
• Healthy dips such as guacamole, hummus, and tzatziki with carrot and celery sticks for dipping
• Grissini (bread sticks), wholegrain crispbreads, baked wholemeal pita chips
• Chocolate dipped strawberries
• Fruit platter with seasonal fruit

Easter weekend meal plan

Whether you’re going away or staying local try some of these holiday low GI snacks and Easter style recipes to keep the cravings at bay.

• Low GI road trip snacks (or Easter gift): Chocolate Fudge balls
• Good Friday fish dish: Jewelled Quinoa with Salmon Recipe | Diabetes Australia
• Easter Sunday long lunch: Grilled Lamb with Pumpkin Tabouli | Diabetes Australia

Note: Pregnant women should avoid raw seafood, sushi with raw seafood, soft cheese, and uncooked deli meats.

By Rebecca McPhee, Accredited Practising Dietitian

With the Federal Election date now set for May 3, Australia’s leading diabetes advocacy organisations are calling for election commitments to expand affordable access to life changing technologies for people living with diabetes.

The cost-of-living crisis is hitting Australians hard, with many people living with diabetes forced to choose between essential medical technology and basic necessities. The latest Diabetes Australia cost of living survey found that for 61 percent of people, the cost of diabetes medicines and technologies was their greatest challenge. 

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said Australians living with all types of diabetes should have equitable access to the technology they need to live well.

“Nobody should have to decide between good health care and putting food on the table,” Ms Cain said.

“The bi-partisan support to expand continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device subsidies for people living with type 1 diabetes in 2022 was welcome and much needed, and we thank both the Government and the Opposition for that.

“Unfortunately, people living with type 2 diabetes requiring multiple daily insulin injections are still being denied the same subsidy. On top of that, thousands of Australians living with type 1 diabetes who can’t afford top level private health insurance are not able to afford insulin pumps.

“This situation cannot continue. Not only are we falling behind the diabetes technology provided in many other developed nations, but as a country we are now failing to provide what is considered standard care in the management of diabetes. There is clear evidence that access to diabetes technologies reduces overall healthcare costs for both the individual and the healthcare system.

“A person’s bank balance or postcode should not be a barrier to good health,” Ms Cain said.

In its policy paper Equitable Access to Diabetes Technology, Diabetes Australia recommends a $200 million investment over four years to expand subsidised access to diabetes technologies for key priority groups as a first step. 

Expanding subsidies for CGM devices will provide access for approximately 22,000 people living with type 2 diabetes, and expanding subsidies for insulin pumps will increase access to a further 16,000 people living with type 1 diabetes.

James Lequertier, 80, lives with type 2 diabetes, and says access to a CGM has helped him a lot. But as a self-funded retiree, he’s paying more than $200 a month out of pocket.

Despite maintaining a healthy weight and living an active lifestyle with no family history of the condition, James was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 30 years ago and has been using insulin since 2000.

“Since I started using a CGM six months ago, my HbA1c has dropped to 7.8%. It’s because I can finally see what’s happening with my blood glucose in real time,” James said. “Just swapping in crispbread instead of eating regular bread at lunch has made a difference, but I wouldn’t have known that as easily without CGM.

“It’s impossible to achieve continuous monitoring with a lancing device, commonly known as a finger prick.”

He says CGM has made managing his diabetes easier and safer, but the cost is a burden.

“What price do you put on your health?” James said.

James has written to both the current and former Federal Health Ministers urging them to subsidise CGM for people with type 2 diabetes who are dependent on insulin.

“There’s a lot of people who have much higher glucose levels than me. They should be able to access the diabetes technology that would help them.”

Technology that supports the management of blood glucose is critically important, given the health complications that can arise when they do not remain within a healthy range. 

More than 1.5 million Australians are living with diabetes and 500,000 are living with undiagnosed diabetes. More than 300 people are diagnosed every day and it is estimated the number of people living with diabetes in Australia will exceed 3.1 million by 2050.

Diabetes Australia, the Australian Diabetes Society and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association say the diabetes epidemic in Australia is at a crisis point. It is time for both the ALP and Coalition parties to make a public commitment to address the current inequity in the system that gives some people access to technologies while others go without.   

The growing epidemic of diabetes is one of the most complex health challenges facing our nation. The latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data estimates that 10 percent of all hospitalisations in Australia in 2021-22 were associated with diabetes.

There has never been a more critical time to act.