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On 15 March, we launched a groundbreaking report that lays out the stark reality of the type 2 diabetes epidemic in New Zealand. It also offers hope.
The Economic and Social Cost
OF TYPE 2 DIABETES Report commissioned by: • Diabetes New Zealand • The University of Otago’s Edgar Diabetes and Obesity Research Centre (EDOR) • Healthier Lives – He Oranga Hauora National Science Challenge. The report was undertaken by PwC New Zealand and funded in part by a generous donation from Tony and Heather Falkenstein.
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DIABETES WELLNESS | Winter 2021
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he Grand Hall at Parliament House was packed for the launch of The Economic and Social Cost of Type 2 Diabetes. Among the more than 200 people assembled, a shared sense of the importance of the event was palpable. The Hon Peeni Henare launched the report, and we heard a range of powerful speeches. Hon Aupito William Sio spoke candidly of his determination to set a healthy-living example to his community. Diabetes NZ’s own Matire Ropiha riveted the audience with her story of the impact of type 2 diabetes on her whānau. Sir Jerry Mateparae sent a strong reminder of the need for the government to honour Te Tiriti in healthcare. And Professor Jim Mann’s presentation had members of the audience gasping at the statistics, but he didn’t let anyone forget that we are talking about people not numbers.
A JOINT CALL TO ACTION
The report shows that, in Aotearoa, type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic proportions and is on a steep upward trajectory for the next 20 years. However, the report also shows that this steep curve could be flattened or even squashed with the right interventions. We’re calling on the government to act now to prevent type 2 diabetes, reduce inequities in healthcare across different communities, and improve the quality of life for everyone in New Zealand. The numbers are scary, but if the government acts now we can change that. The report shows four changes the government can make now to help turn the tide and reduce the costs of type 2 diabetes to individuals and their whānau.
