The mayor of Epsom took a risk assessment test for Type 2 diabetes during an open day at Diabetes UK's regional headquarters last week.
Councillor Colin Taylor and the mayoress Jose Taylor, took part in the test at the charity's Epsom offices on Thursday, October 17, to encourage others to follow their example.
The free test indicates a person’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes within the next 10 years, based on lifestyle choices and heritage. The condition is common in people of black or South Asian descent and usually affects people over the age of 40.
But there have been an increasing number of cases of younger people with a high body mass index being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
Jill Steaton, South East Regional Manager for Diabetes UK, said: "Diabetes is one of the biggest health challenges facing the UK today. We were pleased to see residents coming along to find out how we campaign on behalf of people affected by or at risk of diabetes."
There are 44,000 people diagnosed with diabetes in Surrey and a predicted 16,000 who remain undiagnosed.
The Diabetes UK Risk Assessment test is also available online at www.diabetes.org.uk/riskscore, or can be done at local pharmacies or by visiting your GP.
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