maple surgery

patient participation group

health awareness event - diabetes

programme

Introduction by Trish Hawitt Palmer, maple surgery practice manager
Introduction by Margaret Moffat, maple surgery patient participation group chairman
Recent developments at maple surgery by Dr Gysbert Fourie, maple surgery GP partner
Living with Diabetes, a case study by Ellie Lampen and Sophie Ward
Diabetes management by Janet Edge, maple surgery nurse practitioner
Diabetes self-care by Elly Ellerton, NHS diabetes specialist nurse
Healthy eating for diabetics by Gary Davidson, NHS dietician
Foot care for diabetics by Emma Chipperfield, NHS podiatrist
Question and answer period
Conclusion by Trish Hawitt Palmer, maple surgery practice manager

minutes

The turnout was disappointingly low but those in attendance were enthusiastic. Trish Hawitt Palmer opened the evening with a general welcome and description of the evening's programme. Margaret Moffat followed with a welcome on behalf of the maple surgery patient participation group and explained the role of the group, urging members of the audience to attend the annual general meeting the following week and to consider joining the executive committee. Dr Gysbert Fourie then talked about general developments at the maple surgery.

Janet Edge began the series of talks on the topic of diabetes. She described the various clinics available at the surgery, the new blood tests available for diagnosis and maintenance of the condition, and the serious health complications that can occur if the diabetes is not well-controlled. Traditionally health practitioners have focussed on blood sugar levels but now there is more of an emphasis on reducing cardiovascular risks.

Elly Ellerton continued with the themes developed by Janet Edge. She explained the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and how the treatments differ. A common myth is that all diabetics must take insulin but many patients with Type 2 diabetes control their condition with lifestyle changes and sometimes medication. She talked about self-care in order to prevent complications such as

cardiovascular disease (leading to heart attack, stroke, impotency, retinal bleeding and blindness, kidney damage/failure)
foot problems from poor circulation and delayed healing
dental problems caused by raised bacterial levels in the mouth
liver function impaired by medication used to control the diabetes

Gary Davidson began with a description of the different clinics and programmes available to diabetics, depending upon which type they are and how long they've been living with the condition. He then described the Eatwell Plate, which forms the basis for healthy eating for everyone, not just diabetics. Approximately one-third of your diet should come from fruit and vegetables and another one-third from starchy food such as bread, pasta, potatoes and rice. The remaining third is divided mostly between protein sources (beans, eggs, fish, lentils, meat, nuts, etc.) and dairy products with a tiny portion allotted to fats and sugars. Starches are particularly effective in regulating blood sugar and are the body's preferred source of energy. They have a low glycaemic index, a measure of how fast the body breaks down ingested sugar. Fruits and vegetables contain fibre, minerals, vitamins and anti-oxidants which are thought to help prevent cancer and heart disease. Protein builds muscle and diary products contain calcium which forms strong bones and teeth. Fats should be consumed sparingly as they are calorie dense and saturated fats can have a deleterious effect on cholesterol levels. Finally, moderate-intensity physical activity for 150 minutes per week helps to reduce blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Emma Chipperfield explained that good foot care was particularly important for diabetics. Impaired circulation is a not uncommon complication of diabetes, leading to a variety of problems. Neuropathy, impaired pain sensation, is also a worry. She went on to discuss ways of preventing foot problems, including daily examinations for swelling, sores or numbness, not walking around barefoot, washing feet daily in warm water with a mild soap, drying the feet carefully and moisturising them. Choice of footware is also important. Patients should always have their feet measured when buying shoes and it's best to go shoe shopping in the afternoon when the feet are most swollen. Natural fibre socks/stockings are best, as are cushioned soles. Like feet, footware should be inspected regularly, particularly inside.

The evening concluded with a lively question and answer session. CAMQUIT and Diabetes UK both sent informational leaflets and free samples of useful items for members of the audience to take away.

Trish Hawitt Palmer thanked the audience for their attendance and invited them and their friends and family to the next Health Awareness Event which will be held some time next year.

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