New data on type 2 diabetes released at the Whitten Oval today shows that the western region of Melbourne continues to be a hotspot for the disease.

To promote awareness of this growing problem, the Australian Community Centre for Diabetes (ACCD) in conjunction with DA-Vic have produced detailed data and maps showing the prevalence and incidence of diabetes in western Melbourne.

The website, which was launched today, can be viewed at www.diabetesepidemic.org.au/westernmelbourne .

Among today’s speakers was ACCD  Chairman and former Bulldogs Chairman Peter Gordon. 

Mr. Gordon highlighted some damning new statistics, including the fact that one in seven people in western Melbourne aged 55 and over has diabetes.  This is well above the national average.

“Serious and substantial change is required over the next ten years to combat the epidemic of type 2 diabetes, and to address the unique challenges presented in western Melbourne including cultural diversity, lower socio economic status, poor health literacy and insufficient infrastructure,” Mr. Gordon said.

Among those who attended today’s event was Premier John Brumby, who spoke of the need for the government and community to be vigilant in the face of this growing epidemic.

Promising Western Bulldogs youngster Sam Reid was also in the audience and says that since recently being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, he is more determined than ever to prove himself in the AFL.

“It would be good to show people that even though it’s a pretty big thing, you can still do what you’ve always done and live your life like you always have,” Reid said.

While Bulldogs Chief Executive Campbell Rose spoke of the need for people to be aware of the warning signs.

“Given my genetic background and family history combined with a continual battle to keep the weight off; I know I have a high probability of developing type 2 diabetes.

That’s why it is extremely important for me to eat healthily and exercise regularly,” Rose said. 

For more information on diabetes, visit www.diabetesvic.org.au.