GU Health 'Take Charge Challenge' |
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In May 2006, together with Dr Adam Fraser ‑ one of Australia's foremost experts on
preventing and treating Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle management ‑ GU Health launched
the 'Take Charge Challenge' to draw attention to the growing problem of Type 2 diabetes
in Australia.
By the year 2010 it is estimated that 1.2 million Australians will have diabetes, and the
majority will be diagnosed with Type 2. In addition to its impact on individuals and their
families, Type 2 diabetes also comes at a huge cost in terms of healthcare and it is shown
to have an impact on organisations as well.
The 'Take Charge Challenge' is designed to help people with Type 2 diabetes reclaim control
of their health and their lives.
"Our goal was to demonstrate the effectiveness of lifestyle changes with our first group of
participants, and then challenge corporate Australia to become more involved in helping people
adopt healthier practices so they can prevent the disease from developing or lessen its impact
if they already have it," says GU Health Marketing Manager, Natasha Besseling.
The 6 months lifestyle program consisted of phone counselling and email/online education.
Participating members had either pre diabetes or diabetes and average age of 52 years.
The results showed a significant improvement in the health status of people who completed the program. Highlights included:
- Long term glucose control (HbA1c) reduced by 1.07% in 6 months
- Reduction in fasting glucose levels
- Reduction in body mass
- Participants cholesterol readings are now within the National Heart Foundations 2005 recommendations
- Overall reading for systolic blood pressure decreased from high ‑ normal range to normal levels as outlined by the National Heart Foundation
On releasing the findings of the pilot study Dr Fraser said "This study shows that an email/online education and phone counselling program can significantly improved the glucose control and metabolic health of individuals with pre diabetes or diabetes."
Dr Fraser continued "This is an exciting finding as this program is an efficient and low cost way to help people with diabetes improve their quality of life and the impact of their condition."
As well as piloting a program that delivered great results for participating members the GU Health were happy to support a program that can be delivered to people all across Australia.
"We have many members in remote parts of Australia. The implications for people who are time poor or located in rural areas are great, as there is now an effective program that suits their situation and addresses their condition." Natasha Besseling said.
For more information on the GU Health 'Take Charge Challenge' contact aamoafo@guhealth.com.au.
For more information about diabetes prevention or management contact Dr Adam Fraser dradamfraser@energyfactory.com.au.
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