Diabetes UK warns almost one in 10 will have the condition by 2030
The charity says obesity is fuelling a sharp increase in cases
A leading charity has warned almost one in 10 people in the UK will have diabetes by 2030.
Diabetes UK says obesity is fuelling a rise in cases, with 5.5 million people likely to be living with the condition within the next decade.
People with diabetes are at risk of heart attacks, kidney failure, stroke, amputation and blindness.
The charity also estimates there could be more than 87,000 hospital admissions a year in England by 2030 for the condition, unless something is done to stop the rise in cases.
Jill Steaton is Regional Head in the South East for Diabetes UK.
She said: "The main ones symptoms are what we call the four Ts. Going to the toilet more often, particularly at night time, being thirsty, I mean unquenchable thirst, feeling tired and getting thinner.
"The symptoms are actually the same for Type 1 and Type 2 but with Type 1 they come on very very rapidly, and you'll need to be seen rapidly. With Type 2 they can come on over a number of years.
"The earlier you diagnose diabetes the better. You can manage the condition very well in most cases. But if you don't manage the condition, you keep having high blood glucose levels or high blood sugar levels, then you have the risk of developing really serious complications.
"It's important that people are aware of the signs and symptoms and that they seek help as soon as possible. If you are overweight and at risk of Type 2 diabetes, then the NHS has the diabetes prevention programme, you can look at weight management programmes and exercise."
Diabetes UK has launched a new TV campaign, This Is Diabetes, featuring families across the UK living with the condition.