Diabetes charity calls on Wiltshire to take on million step challenge
The challenge lasts three months - making it 10,000 steps a day
A leading diabetes charity is challenging people in Wiltshire to make a million steps between now and the end of September.
Diabetes UK has launched it's One Million Step Challenge from today until the end of September (30th) to support people living with the disease.
It works out as around 10,000 steps per day and those taking part in the challenge can do so at their own pace, in their own way.
Phaedra Perry, Head of Diabetes UK south west said: “Walking is a fantastic way to help you get fit and by taking on the One Million Step Challenge, you’ll not only be stepping towards a healthier version of yourself, but every step you take and every pound you raise will help us fund research for new treatments, campaign for better care, and provide vital support through our helpline.
There are two other challenges participants can choose from with the half a million and 1.7million challenge.
Anyone wanting to take part can register here. It's free to sign up and there's no minimum sponsorship.
An illness more common than dementia and cancer
The charity's ambition is to create a world where diabetes causes no harm. It's among the most devastating and increasingly common health issues of current times, affecting more people than dementia and cancer.
There's no cure for diabetes at the moment.
There are two types of diabetes.
People with type 1 diabetes cannot produce insulin. About 8 per cent of people with diabetes have type 1. No one knows exactly what causes it, but it’s not to do with being overweight and it isn’t currently preventable. It’s the most common type of diabetes in children and young adults, starting suddenly and getting worse quickly.
Type 1 diabetes is treated by daily insulin doses – taken either by injections or via an insulin pump. It is also recommended to follow a healthy diet and take regular physical activity.
People with type 2 diabetes don’t produce enough insulin or the insulin they produce doesn’t work properly (known as insulin resistance). Around 90 per cent of people with diabetes have type 2. They might get type 2 diabetes because of their family history, age and ethnic background puts them at increased risk.
They are also more likely to get type 2 diabetes if they are overweight. It starts gradually, usually later in life, and it can be years before they realise they have it. Type 2 diabetes is treated with a healthy diet and increased physical activity. In addition, tablets and/or insulin can be required.