An updated online education programme aimed at people with type 2 diabetes has been launched by Diabetes Ireland.

An estimated 234,000 people in Ireland are currently living with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Smart is a free, interactive online programme, which has been updated to meet increasing demand. It aims to help educate people who have been newly diagnosed and refresh the knowledge of those living with the condition for longer.

It contains six interactive modules, which can be completed at any time on a laptop, tablet or mobile phone. Participants can pause their learning at any stage and resume at a later date. Topics covered include understanding blood glucose levels, managing illness and getting active.

Diabetes Ireland hopes that GPs and other relevant healthcare professionals will promote the programme to their patients. It noted that a significant burden has been placed on GPs and the health system due to the Covid-19 pandemic and as a result, many people with diabetes have not had regular review meetings with their GP or diabetes team.

“We in Diabetes Ireland frequently hear how a diagnosis of diabetes can be difficult to accept as people have to learn to adapt to a whole new way of living. Unfortunately, the pandemic has meant that some people living with type 2 diabetes have felt more isolated or have had restricted or reduced access to healthcare professionals,” explained dietitian and Diabetes Ireland regional development officer, Sinead Powell.

The national charity noted that according to a 2021 Healthy Ireland survey, the number of people with type 2 diabetes in Ireland is expected to increase by 60% over the next 10-15 years.

The condition can have a profound impact on quality of life and those affected have a increased risk of experiencing a number of complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, blindness and lower limb amputation. However, through effective management strategies, people with type 2 diabetes can significantly improve their health and reduce their risk of complications. In some cases, the condition can even be reversed.

Deirdre McTeigue was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and she trialled the updated programme for Diabetes Ireland.

“I really liked the visuals and the videos. As I’m newly diagnosed, I’m finding it all a bit daunting, so I like that I can go back and look at the diagrams and videos again. I also like that I can share the material with my husband and children so they can understand and better support me.

“I find that they are now more willing to come out walking with me and more encouraging with the diet. Having diabetes is restrictive, but I now know very manageable, and we can’t say that about a lot of illnesses,” she commented.

Diabetes Smart is supported by Novo Nordisk. It can be accessed here.