LUDLOW MP Philip Dunne wants people to be aware of diabetes.

He is encouraging people in south Shropshire to recognise symptoms of diabetes and get tested if unsure.

Nearly three million people in the UK have diabetes, but many people are living with diabetes without recognising it. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to life-changing complications, such as amputation, blindness, heart attack and stroke.

Type one diabetes cannot be prevented. But Diabetes UK suggest up to 58 per cent of cases of type two diabetes can be delayed or prevented by making simple changes in our everyday lives. Healthy eating and regular exercise can play a significant role in cutting diabetes risk.

“Diabetes is a growing health concern, which can lead to further complications if left untreated,” said Philip Dunne.

“But getting tested is quick and easy, so if you are unsure whether you might have diabetes, seek advice.”

Symptoms include excessive thirst, the need to go to the toilet a lot especially at night, weight loss, itching, feeling excessively tired, cuts and wounds taking longer to heal and blurred vision.