A new strategic partnership between 黑料网 and Cystic Fibrosis Research Limited will fund research into cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD).

The partnership will see almost $600,000 invested, beginning with an $80,000 first-round investment to identify the research priorities that matter most to the CFRD community.

Around one third of people diagnosed with cystic fibrosis develop CFRD as a complication, which is believed to develop as part of cystic fibrosis through damage to the pancreas, resulting in both insulin resistance and insufficiency.

CFRD requires careful management to protect lung health, prevent nutritional decline, maintain healthy weight and strength, and to lower the risk of infection. 

黑料网 Group CEO Justine Cain said the agreement demonstrates the organisation鈥檚 commitment to Australians living with all types of diabetes.

鈥淭his partnership will turn evidence into action, creating a positive impact in people鈥檚 lives.

鈥淐ystic fibrosis is a devastating chronic condition but developments in treatment and management have significantly improved outcomes for individuals,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淏oth diabetes and cystic fibrosis are strongly influenced by genetic factors, meaning there are real opportunities for developing more effective management.

鈥淲e鈥檙e proud to partner with Cystic Fibrosis Research Limited to amplify research impact, and to support innovation that puts lived experience at the heart of research.鈥�

Cystic Fibrosis Research Limited Director and Cystic Fibrosis Queensland CEO Petrina Fraccaro said the investment in research would help address misunderstandings while focusing on lived experience. 

鈥淐ystic fibrosis related diabetes is one of the most common and serious complications of cystic fibrosis, yet it remains widely misunderstood and under-recognised. This partnership represents a critical step toward ensuring research priorities are shaped by lived experience and focused on the real-world challenges faced by Australians living with CFRD,鈥� she said.

鈥淐FRD is a form of pancreatogenic, or Type 3c diabetes, caused by progressive damage to the pancreas. It is fundamentally different from type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and requires specialised approaches to care, research, and support.

鈥淎s people with cystic fibrosis live longer, addressing complications like CFRD is essential. This investment signals an important commitment to improving both quality of life and long-term health outcomes for our community,鈥� Ms Fraccaro said.

The first funding call will support a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing the CFRD community with a national approach and focus on lived experience. This will assist in identifying research topics for future funding investment to advance the development of evidence-based solutions to address issues that matter most to the CFRD community.

Identified priorities will be shared with the CFRD community including aligned research funding agencies with invitations to collaborate, coordinate and co-fund research investment at the conclusion of the identification phase.

Calls for project proposals nominations are anticipated to open in March 2026.   

Partnerships like this are part of the 2025-2030 黑料网 Research Strategy, which supports research that is informed by lived experience. For more information please visit /current-research-projects/

About CFRL

Cystic Fibrosis Research Limited (CFRL) was established in April 1990 by Cystic Fibrosis Queensland to administer and grow bequests and donations to further cystic fibrosis research priorities. The objective of CFRL is to act as custodian of a 鈥楥apital Fund鈥� for the purpose of facilitating research into, investigation of and the eventual cure of cystic fibrosis.

World Sight Day is Thursday, 9 October 2025. This year鈥檚 theme, , highlights the need for eye care that is accessible, available, and affordable for everyone, everywhere.

Our vision is one of our most precious gifts, an essential part of who we are. Yet, we often take our eyes for granted until something goes wrong. So, what steps can you take to protect your sight?

A window to the world

Your eyes are at work from the moment you wake up to the moment you close them to go to sleep. Your eyes take in an abundance of information about the world around you 鈥� shapes, colours, movements, and more. Our vision allows us to be aware of our surroundings and 80% of everything we learn is through our sight. As we get older, changes to our eyes mean our sight becomes more vulnerable.

Risk factors for eye problems

A number of factors can cause eye disease. Other than diabetes, the most common factors are:

• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Ageing
• Excess screen time and in particular near-work such as reading, watching TV or looking at a computer screen
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Being overweight

Diabetes and eye health

People with diabetes have an increased risk of developing eye problems relating to high blood glucose levels.

For people living with diabetes vision loss is a major complication, so it is even more important to stay on top of eye health.

Short-term eye problems to be on the look out for

Short term eye problems can include:

• Blurred vision
• Infections
• Conjunctivitis (inflammation and redness of the lining of the whites of the eyes and the membranes surrounding the inner eyelids)
• Uveitis (inflammation of the middle portion of the eye, the uvea)
• Stye (a painful eye infection along the lash line due to blocked oil glands on the eyelid)

Long-term eye problems to watch out for

The risk of serious, more permanent eye problems increases when you have high blood glucose levels over a long period of time, or if your blood pressure or cholesterol levels are high. Long-term eye problems include:

Cataracts

Cataracts which can happen when protein from the lens clumps together and makes the lens cloudy, this can reduce vision. Although sun damage and ageing are the main risk factors, people with diabetes tend to develop cataracts faster and at a younger age than others. Without treatment cataracts will continue to develop until eventually vision loss is complete. Cataract surgery is often required if the cataracts affect your vision significantly.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma occurs when there is damage to the optic nerve, causing a build-up of pressure inside the eye. It can affect anyone, but again, it鈥檚 more common in people with diabetes. There are no warning signs of glaucoma, as it does not produce symptoms in the early stages. Early identification of glaucoma is important, as by the time you notice any vision changes, treatment may stop but cannot reverse any existing vision loss. Glaucoma is usually treated with prescription eye drops, though occasionally, laser and surgical procedures may be needed.

Diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy can be the result of high blood glucose levels which, over time, can damage the small blood vessels in the retina of the eye, causing them to leak fluid. New blood vessels will grow to replace the damaged ones, but these new vessels are weak, rupture easily, and can cause a haemorrhage (bleed). New blood vessels can also leak protein or fluid into the macula and this can lead to macular oedema. In the early stages, there may be no symptoms or changes to your vision, but an eye check can identify the onset of problems. Diabetic retinopathy has five stages ranging from (1) no retinopathy to (2) mild, then (3) moderate to (4) severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy up to (5) proliferative retinopathy.

Diabetic macular oedema

Diabetic macular oedema is an additional and important complication of diabetes that can be found with any stage of diabetic retinopathy and that can run an independent course. When the macula is affected, you can lose your central vision.

Retinal detachment

Retinal detachment can develop when the retina separates from the tissue that it is normally attached to, like wallpaper peeling off a damp wall. It can occur at any age, but it most commonly occurs in Caucasian males over the age of 40. Please be assured that retinal detachment is quite rare, occurring in just 1 in 10,000 people each year. If your retina is detached, you can lose some or all your vision permanently, if not treated urgently. Hence it is a medical emergency, that needs to be assessed as soon as possible, so that your ophthalmologist can start the treatment you may need to preserve any vision.

Eye health checks

You can greatly reduce your risk of serious vision loss from diabetes through regular eye examinations and timely treatment. The sooner eye problems are detected and treated, the better the result.

It is recommended that you have your eyes checked at least every two years 鈥� by an optometrist or an eye specialist (ophthalmologist). Have your eyes checked more often if your eye care professional advises, especially if you already have eye problems or if you are planning a pregnancy. Discuss any changes in your vision that develop in between your routine eye checks with your optometrist, eye specialist or your GP.

Your eyes can be checked by an optometrist without the need for a medical referral. Medicare provides a full rebate on most optometry appointments, but does not reimburse you if glasses are needed.  Most private health funds will at least partially reimburse you for your prescription glasses, depending on your level of cover.

A referral from a general practitioner, optometrist or other medical specialist is required to obtain the Medicare rebate for an ophthalmology consultation. Appointments are prioritised according to medical need.

KeepSight

is a program developed by 黑料网 to make it easier for people with diabetes to get their eyes checked. KeepSight provides electronic alerts and reminders to help you remember your diabetes eye checks. When it鈥檚 time for a diabetes eye check you get a reminder. It鈥檚 that simple. KeepSight can also help you find an optometrist if you don鈥檛 know one.

Take an active role

There are a number of things you can actively do to reduce your risk of developing eye problems and these include:

• Aim for blood glucose levels and blood pressure as close to your target ranges as possible and aiming to avoid large glucose excursions (jumps from low to really high and vice versa)
• Keep your cholesterol level within the recommended range. Regular appointments with your health professionals can help you with this.
• Don鈥檛 smoke. If you do smoke, try and quit. If you feel you can鈥檛 give up smoking on your own, ask for help 鈥� talk to your doctor or call the Quitline on 13 78 48.
• See your optometrist or ophthalmologist for an eye check as soon as you notice any changes in your vision, though better still, see them annually.
• Speak to a psychologist or social worker if the health of your eyes is causing you to feel worried or anxious.

In summary

In Australia, 90% of blindness and vision loss is preventable or treatable; however, this rises to 94% for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.聽It is estimated that in Australia over 500,000 people are affected by blindness or vision loss and that 80% of blindness and vision impairment is caused by five common eye conditions (listed alphabetically):

• age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• cataracts
• diabetic retinopathy
• glaucoma
• uncorrected or under-corrected refractive error.

In most cases, the earlier eye problems are treated, the better the result. Your eye specialist can advise what treatments are available. But as always, prevention is better than trying to cure.

By Credentialled Diabetes Educator, Carolien Koreneff

this year runs from 4 August-10 August 2025.

When you live with diabetes looking after your blood glucose levels can become your main health focus. However, many people forget that having diabetes can increase your chance of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD generally refers to conditions that involve narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack, stoke or chest pain.

Living with diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, potentially up to four times higher than for those without diabetes. This heightened risk stems from how diabetes can alter blood composition, promoting atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in arteries. This plaque buildup narrows or blocks blood vessels, hindering blood flow and increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. 

What is a stroke?

Your brain is fed by blood carrying oxygen and nutrients through blood vessels called arteries, when blood cannot get to your brain, due to a block or burst artery, a stroke can happen.

There are two main types of stroke, both stop blood from getting to areas of the brain:

• Ischaemic stroke

This can occur when either an artery in the brain gets blocked by a clot that might be formed somewhere in the body (usually the heart). The clot then travels through the bloodstream to your brain. Or it may be due to the formation of plaque which can affect the major arteries in the neck which carry blood to the brain.

• Haemorrhagic stroke

This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is ruptured, stopping the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. This is often be caused by high blood pressure.

How do you know if someone is having a stroke?

recommends the F.A.S.T. test as an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke, by asking these simple questions:

Face: check their face. Has it drooped?

Arms: can they lift both arms?

Speech: is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?

Time: if you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.

While arm weakness, facial weakness and difficulty with speech are the most common symptoms or signs of stroke, they are not the only signs.

Other signs of stroke can also occur alone or in combination

• Difficulty swallowing
• Dizziness, loss of balance, or an unexplained fall
• Loss of vision, sudden blurring or decreased vision in one or both eyes
• Headache, usually severe and abrupt in onset
• Weakness or numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg on either side of the body

Sometimes the signs disappear within a short time, such as a few minutes. This may be a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), which occurs when the blood supply to your brain is blocked temporarily. After a TIA, your risk of a stroke is higher and a warning that you may have a stroke.

Remember, if you or others experiences the signs of stroke, no matter how long they last, call 000 immediately.

What can you do?

When living with diabetes, you are more likely to have other health problems that can cause heart disease, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. This, along with having higher than ideal blood glucose levels, can damage the blood vessels, making them more likely to develop fat deposits. So looking after your heart health becomes extra important.

Look after your heart

Be physically active

Regular physical activity can lower blood pressure and help reduce the risk of a heart attack. Aim to do at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity. Check with your doctor before starting exercise if you aren鈥檛 currently exercising.

Make healthy food choices

Follow a healthy diet with a wide variety of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, lean meat and low-fat dairy. It is also important to limit foods high in saturated fat and salt to reduce your risk of heart problems.

Keep your blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) in check

Have regular blood test to ensure your cholesterol, triglycerides levels are in target range.

Manage high blood pressure

High blood pressure is common in people with diabetes, weight loss (if needed), and regular physical activity along with dietary changes such as reducing your salt intake, replacing unhealthy fats (saturated fats & trans fats) with healthy fats (unsaturated fats) and limiting alcohol can help reduce your risk of heart disease.

Maintain a healthy weight range

Carrying excess weight, especially around your waist, not only increases insulin resistance but is a major risk factor for heart disease. Losing as little as 5-10% of your weight can reduce your risk of stroke.

If you smoke, try to quit

Smoking affects the vessels that supply blood to your heart and other parts of your body, it not only increases stiffness of those blood vessels making it harder to expand and contract, it also contributes to atherosclerosis, where it can narrow and clog your arteries. Smoking can increase your risk of having a stroke by three times.

Michelle Tong, Accredited Practising Dietitian, Credentialled Diabetes Educator

This article was first published in 2020.
Updated July 2025.

People living with diabetes are at risk of developing eye conditions that can lead to vision loss, such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema. While the thought of losing your sight is scary, the good news is it can often be prevented if changes are detected early by your optometrist and a course of treatment is started. Fortunately, there are some preventative measures and treatment options available that can help you care for your eyes and preserve your vision.[i]

1. Lifestyle changes to protect your eyes

In many ways, managing your lifestyle and diabetes is like giving your eyes a daily dose of preventive medicine. While other treatments address symptoms, lifestyle choices can directly impact the progression of diabetes-related eye disease and the severity of symptoms.

Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining healthy blood glucose levels, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol can make a significant difference and help prevent or slow the progression of eye disease.[ii]

• Blood glucose management: Consistently out of target blood glucose levels can weaken blood vessels and cause them to leak into the retina, resulting in blurry vision and even severe vision loss. Keeping blood glucose within a target range reduces the risk of blood vessel damage and reduces the need for more intensive treatments down the line.
  
• Healthy diet and regular exercise: Eating a diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help stabilise blood glucose and reduce inflammation, which benefits not only your eyes but your overall health. Regular exercise, even just 30 minutes a day, can improve insulin sensitivity, helping to keep blood glucose in check.[iii]
  
• Blood pressure and cholesterol management: High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can worsen diabetes-related eye disease.[iv] Proper management through lifestyle changes and medication, when needed, reduces the strain on eye health.

2. Eye injections to minimise inflammation and control swelling

Intravitreal injections (into the eye) have been shown to significantly improve vision for people with diabetic macular oedema and reduce the progression of diabetic retinopathy. Injections can deliver corticosteroid medications directly into the eye, relieving swelling in the macula, and block the growth of abnormal blood vessels. They are especially effective at preserving central vision, which is vital for activities like reading and driving.

Depending on the severity of the condition and how a person responds to the medication, injections may be required every 4鈥�12 weeks.[v] Adherence to regular injections is essential, as missing a scheduled injection can allow fluid to accumulate in the retina again, causing further vision loss. With consistent eye injection treatment, many people experience stability or improvement in their vision.

3. Laser therapy to reduce risk of severe vision loss

Laser treatment is typically a quick procedure performed by an ophthalmologist and can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision loss, especially in advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy. It works by applying focused laser light to abnormal blood vessels in the retina, reducing their growth and stopping them from leaking and causing vision loss. While it doesn鈥檛 cure the disease, laser treatment can stabilise vision and prevent further deterioration. Importantly, it reduces the risk of retinal detachment and helps preserve central vision, which is essential for everyday tasks.[vi]

Continuing with treatment is important, as delaying or skipping could result in further damage to the retina. Your health professional will guide you on how many treatments are necessary based on your specific condition.

4. Attending regular diabetes eye checks

Of course, one of the simplest ways to look after your eyes is to attend your scheduled eye appointments with your local optometrist. With regular eye tests, your optometrist can check and monitor your vision and detect tiny changes before you notice any issues.

If you need help remembering when your next eye check is due, it鈥檚 worthwhile signing up to KeepSight, Australia鈥檚 Diabetes Eye Check Reminder Program, to receive free reminders when it鈥檚 time for your next appointment. Register at .

Adherence and consistency are key

Sticking to your eye health treatment plan, whether it鈥檚 lifestyle changes, laser therapy, or injections, is vital for protecting your eyes from diabetes-related vision loss. Proactive measures and management options are most effective when applied consistently and sustained over time, helping you safeguard your vision and continue enjoying a high quality of life for years to come.

By Shinae Warren, Specsavers Optometrist

---

[i] Sayin, N., Kara, N., & Pekel, G. (2015). Ocular complications of diabetes mellitus. World journal of diabetes, 6(1), 92鈥�108.

[ii] Bryl, A., Mrugacz, M., Falkowski, M., & Zorena, K. (2022). The Effect of Diet and Lifestyle on the Course of Diabetic Retinopathy-A Review of the Literature. Nutrients, 14(6), 1252.

[iii] Bird, S., Hawley, J. (2017). Update on the effects of physical activity on insulin sensitivity in humans. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine.

[iv] Tomi膰, M., Vrabec, R., Ra拧tegorac, P. et al. (2021). Hypertension and Hypercholesterolemia are Associated with Cataract Development in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 28, 475鈥�481.

[v] Wong, T. Y., Sun, J., Kawasaki, R., Ruamviboonsuk, P., Gupta, N., Lansingh, V. C., … & Taylor, H. (2018). Guidelines on diabetic eye care. Ophthalmology, 125(10), 1608鈥�1622.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ophtha.2018.04.007

[vi] Pande, G. S., & Tidake, P. (2022). Laser Treatment Modalities for Diabetic Retinopathy. Cureus, 14(10), e30024. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.30024

The KeepSight eye check reminder program has registered its 400,000^th participant – a major milestone in the prevention of diabetes-related eye complications.

The program, delivered by 黑料网 in partnership with the eye sector, makes it easier for people with diabetes to remember when they are due to get their eyes checked and help detect eye problems that can lead to vision loss.

黑料网 Group CEO Justine Cain said the milestone was significant in the fight to maintain the sight of people living with diabetes.

鈥淜eepSight is committed to preventing diabetes-related blindness,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淗aving over 400,000 people now registered with the program is a very significant milestone.

鈥淭his program is changing lives by supporting people with diabetes to proactively look after their eye health and prevent complications.

鈥淵ou don鈥檛 have to look far to see that this program is changing the lives of people with diabetes,鈥� she said.

Idwer Jajju, who lives with type 2 diabetes, urged people to never take their eyesight for granted.

鈥淚 have had bleeding and other symptoms in my eyes since 2010,鈥� Mr Jajju said.

鈥淪ince then, I have undergone various treatments including lasers, injections, and surgery, but I still have symptoms and bleeding.

鈥淜eepSight is a valuable program because it reminds you when you鈥檙e due for a diabetes eye check. Preventive eye care is very important.鈥�

According to Specsavers鈥� Optometry Director Dr Ben Ashby, KeepSight registering 400,000 people is evidence of a successful strategic partnership with 黑料网 that delivers better outcomes for program participants.

鈥淧eople registered with KeepSight are accessing eye care in a timely and regular manner, which is great to see,鈥� Dr Ashby said.

鈥淭o provide that opportunity to 400,000 patients is an important milestone in the prevention of avoidable vision loss.鈥�  

There are more than 1.5 million Australians living with all types of diabetes. They are encouraged to make an appointment with an eye care professional of their choice for a Medicare-funded diabetes eye test.

About KeepSight program

The program, which is run by 黑料网, has been co-funded by the Australian Government and Specsavers, with additional funding from Bayer, Novartis and Mylan. The program is supported by leading diabetes and eye health groups including Oculo, Vision 2020 Australia, Centre for Eye Research Australia, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, Orthoptics Australia, Optometry Australia, the Australian Diabetes Society and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association.

Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a common condition related to living with diabetes, with almost 50% experiencing it as part of their diabetes journey.

The term peripheral means that it affects the parts of our bodies furthest from our hearts. These are your hands and lower limbs below the knees, including the feet. Neuropathy means nerve dysfunction; it means your nerves aren鈥檛 working as they should.

The jury is still out on the exact cause of PN; however, ongoing research reveals both large and small nerves are affected. Damage to large nerves is related to loss of sensation, numbness, and muscle weakness. When smaller nerves are involved, it can lead to pain and ulcers.

Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies are difficult because there are so many mechanisms involved. Some affect the whole body such as infections or chemical exposure, for example chemotherapy. Others are on a cellular level, perhaps how our bodies use glucose or fats, or there may be confusion of the immune response to differing stimuli. These pathways then lead to inflammation, gene damage, signalling failure, or compromise of the protective layer around the nerves known as the myelin sheath. There are many possible pathways to PN, and this article can’t cover all of them. There is much still yet to be understood, and research is ongoing.

Signs and symptoms

• Pain on one or both sides of the body 鈥� sensations such as aching, stabbing and throbbing
• Numbness
• Pins and needles
• The sensation of insects crawling on your skin
• Hot areas or a burning sensation
• Cold areas which are difficult to warm up
• Muscle weakness
• Lower leg or foot ulcers.

Risk factors for PN are as varied as the signs and symptoms

Here鈥檚 what we know so far: diabetes is a risk factor. This is different for each individual and related to factors such as age, blood glucose time in range, average HbA1c levels, duration of diabetes, type of diabetes and so on. But living with diabetes is not the only possible risk factor.

Other possible causes of PN include alcohol consumption, side effects of certain medications, deficiency of certain vitamins such as thiamine (vitamin B1) and cobalamin (vitamin B12), exposure to specific toxins, some autoimmune conditions, and associated inflammation and immune responses, smoking related oxidative stress, genetics and gene mutations, some conditions of the nervous system such as CIPD (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy), HIV, having a heavier than recommend weight, or compromised thyroid function. This is not an exhaustive list. Sometimes we just don鈥檛 know why PN develops.

So why might you care?

We all deserve to live our best lives. As well as the signs and symptoms listed earlier, you may also experience:

• Damage to feet, lower limbs or hands
• Altered gait, with discomfort or ongoing mobility issues
• Compromised balance increasing falls risk
• Development of ulcers – with possible pain and infection
• Reduced independence
• Less ability to keep up with the grandchildren
• Limits to work around the house or paid employment
• Questioned eligibility of driving license
• Disturbed sleep
• Associated anxiety, depression, and diabetes burnout
• Possible amputation when wounds do not heal.

Investigations

Due to the large number of risk factors for PN, several testing avenues might be offered including:

• A clinical picture such as family history, physical examination for signs and symptoms, duration, and severity
• Exposure to toxins for example in the workplace, or alcohol consumption
• Medications both current and historical
• Imaging or biopsy
• Nerve testing
• Blood pathology.

Prevention and treatments options

Prevention and treatment involve an inter-disciplinary approach, where a range of health providers work together to support you with your self-management of diabetes and related PN. Prevention is always the best path forwards. Some risk factors you can鈥檛 do anything about such as genetics. However, there are many lifestyle, dietary and other factors that can be modified.

• Daily foot monitoring and care performed by yourself or your carer.
• Your general practitioner may prescribe specific supplements or medications, provide advice, answer questions and also be the central contact point for your diabetes and PN healthcare team. He or she can request pathology or other investigations and refer you to health professionals and specialists. Some referrals may be subsidised under a Medicare Care Plan.
• A comprehensive podiatry assessment can check function and risk factors and can include advice about footwear and foot care.
• An accredited practising dietitian assessing and advising around diet, particularly if your doctor identifies deficiencies.
• The practice nurse assists your general practitioner answering your questions, and monitoring aspects such as weight, blood glucose and blood pressure.
• An accredited exercise physiologist can prescribe physical activity and exercises to help improve balance and fitness, based on your individual health issues and needs.
• A psychologist may provide psychological wellbeing strategies.
• A credentialled diabetes educator supports, answers questions and provides education relating to managing diabetes.  He or she can offer insight into modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, and what鈥檚 happening in your body.
• Physiotherapy may be required if, for example, you experience a fall or other injury.
• Your pharmacist is your go-to for all information related to medications including side effects and interactions.

Treatment generally depends on symptoms, but often involves capsicum-based cream to distract from pain or tingling. These creams are available from pharmacies.

Next treatment options include a range of medications which include anti-depressants and anti-epileptics which as a side effect, decrease nerve pain.

And, lastly, spinal cord stimulation, which requires surgery to place an electrode in the spinal cord. This allows an electrical current to be applied to confuse pain signals to the brain.

Find out more

Take this to assess the health of your feet, or head to for more information.

The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) has good quality information on their website about self-assessment and care of hands, , and lower limbs. There are also face-to-face and virtual (online) programs available, such as .

Peripheral neuropathy is the most common condition related to living with diabetes. The resulting compromise to quality of life can be profound. 黑料网, the NDSS, and your healthcare team are here to help. Download a fact sheet, make a call on 1800 177 055, or set up an assessment appointment today.

Constance Russell, RN CDE

One in 20 hospitalisations in Australia is a person living with diabetes undergoing dialysis, and that figure is projected to rise as rates of kidney failure are expected to increase by 45% by 2040.

A new report, released today by 黑料网, highlights the alarming rise in diabetes-related kidney disease and the massive impact this is having on the Australian health system.

The report estimates diabetes-related kidney disease costs Australia $2.68B per annum with the majority of the cost ($1.9B) associated with people living with diabetes experiencing kidney failure.

It calls for the introduction of a Diabetes Kidney Disease Screening Program to ensure people living with diabetes at high-risk of end-stage kidney disease are detected early when treatments are most effective.

The report also found:

• 324 Australians living with diabetes undergo a kidney transplant each year
• 10,249 Australians living with diabetes are undergoing kidney replacement therapy including dialysis each year
• 2,024 Australians living with diabetes die from kidney disease each year
• Better early detection of kidney disease could save the Australian economy around $500M per annum

黑料网 Group CEO Justine Cain said the report was compelling proof of the need for earlier intervention to help prevent kidney failure.

鈥淭here are an estimated 330,000 people living with diabetes-related kidney disease which is about a quarter of all people living with diabetes,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淢ore than 10,000 Australians living with diabetes are undergoing kidney replacement therapy which can include dialysis or kidney transplantation.

鈥淢ost kidney failure can be prevented with early intervention; however, just under a quarter (23%) of people are getting their kidneys checked within recommended timeframes.

鈥淪everal factors contribute to this including the complexity of the kidney health checks, the overall challenges of living with diabetes, and a low level of awareness about chronic kidney disease.”

Report co-author Professor Richard MacIsaac, Director of Endocrinology at St Vincent鈥檚 Hospital Melbourne, said keeping as many people off dialysis as possible was crucial.

鈥淒ialysis takes a huge toll on the quality of life of the person receiving it and represents a massive burden on our health system,鈥� Professor MacIsaac said.

鈥淎 person receiving dialysis is visiting hospital more than 150 times a year to receive around 780 hours of care.

鈥淏ut if we can detect people early, existing medicines are excellent at stopping or slowing the progression of kidney disease.鈥�

Lead author of the report, Professor Elif Ekinci, Director of the Australian Centre for Accelerating Diabetes Innovation, said the report clearly highlighted the impact of diabetes-related kidney disease and the need for urgent action.

鈥淒iabetes is one of the most urgent health challenges of our time and one of the reasons for this is the massive impact of diabetes-related complications such as kidney disease,鈥� Professor Ekinci said.

鈥淭he report sets out some clear recommendations for improving rates of screening for kidney disease and if we can reduce the impact of diabetes-related kidney disease.鈥�

Ms Cain said Australia has a world-class health system, with many of the elements needed to deliver an effective national diabetes kidney disease screening program.

鈥淎ustralia has excellent diabetes care infrastructure including a world-class diabetes health professional workforce, the National Diabetes Services Scheme which provides excellent information for people living with diabetes, and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme which ensures people can affordably access the medicines they need,鈥� she said.

鈥淩educing the impact of diabetes-related kidney disease is cost-effective. It doesn鈥檛 require new clinics, new operating theatres or new hospital beds.

鈥淚t involves taking our existing health infrastructure, including existing databases and services, and optimising them to increase rates of screening.

鈥淔or instance, we are proposing that the NDSS database, managed by 黑料网 on behalf of the Australian Government, could be optimised to facilitate recall and reminders to encourage kidney checks for all Australians living with diabetes.

鈥淏etter integration with existing GP and pathology software could also support better information sharing between different members of a person鈥檚 healthcare team.

鈥淔inally, this screening can be done with existing Medicare item numbers using existing pathology providers and primary care services.

鈥淭his is one of the most cost-effective interventions we can implement across the entire health system. Modelling shows every dollar spent on the detection and prevention of chronic kidney disease returns around $45.

鈥淚f we get this right we save lives and can reduce the impact of diabetes complications on our health system.鈥�

黑料网 commissioned the Australian Centre for Accelerating Diabetes Innovation led by聽, Sir Edward Weary Dunlop Principal Research Fellow in Metabolic Medicine, and Dame Kate Campbell, Fellow at the University of Melbourne. Professor Ekinci is the lead author of the report.

A copy of the report is available here: Change the Future: Saving Lives by Better Detecting Diabetes-Related Kidney Disease

Group education programs for people living with diabetes are fantastic tools for improving an understanding of the best ways to look after health, but occasionally they offer an even more profound learning opportunity. Linda Uhr, Accredited Practising Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, shares the story of Graham, who experienced a 鈥減enny drop鈥� moment during a FootSmart漏 program in South-Western Sydney.

A participant shared a deeply personal story about his long journey with type 2 diabetes. The condition had caused neuropathy (a loss of sensation) in his feet and this meant giving up on the activities in his life that brought him joy and normality. He was genuinely scared about what the future held for him.

As a facilitator this is always a tough moment. I remember looking around the room and seeing many of the group like me, welling up and lost for the right words to say.

After a moment of silence Graham, another member of the group, spoke up in a sincere and respectful way. Although his exact words evade me now, he essentially said how this moment – right now – was his wake-up call.

鈥淢ate, I think I am you鈥� but maybe 10 years earlier,鈥� he said.

This was a penny drop moment; so sudden and so clear that no one in the room could ignore it.

As a health professional, passionate about prevention and early intervention, I was blown away by Graham鈥檚 words. They seemed far more powerful and meaningful than my own. Behaviour change research shows that people have a far greater tendency to listen to someone they identify with. With this in mind, Graham has kindly agreed to share his experience of pre-diabetes, diabetes and how early action is key.

Graham鈥檚 story

Graham spent 16 years in the Australian Army, worked as a commercial diver, a professional driver, an office worker and a senior manager. He was diagnosed with diabetes eight years ago and was told he needed to make changes.

鈥淏ut men are stubborn!鈥� says Graham. 

鈥淚’m a man – I thought I was 10-foot-tall and bullet proof and that I’d just deal with it when it became a problem. I thought I could just get it fixed. But what did I know? 

鈥淚鈥檝e had more than my share of stress. All wonderful environments to learn bad habits in, and now it鈥檚 become a problem.

鈥淲hat I have to change now has been pretty overwhelming and I am at the point that I really don’t have a choice. Why? Because I didn鈥檛 act on what I was told back then.

鈥淒iabetes is a silent issue but it鈥檚 not taboo, it needs a voice. Had I looked into it earlier, I honestly believe my eyes would have been opened. The gentleman that was sitting to my left with foot issues presented an extremely powerful symbol to me. I felt for him, but also I wanted to do whatever I could do to not be in that position.”

Insulin resistance: The warning light

Insulin resistance is fancy terminology for describing the warning light that comes on to alert you that changes are happening in your body and that something needs to be done.

When you are healthy, you can process carbohydrates easily. They get eaten, digested into glucose and enter the bloodstream to make its way to all the cells in your body that require it for energy. The pancreas detects glucose in the bloodstream and releases a hormone called insulin to allow the 鈥榣ock鈥� on your cell doors to be opened. This is often why insulin is described as a key.

Insulin resistance refers to those locks becoming rusted and making it more difficult for the glucose to enter your cells. You can be living with insulin resistance for many years, with no knowledge that anything is wrong. As Graham said, it can be silent.

Over time insulin resistance means your pancreas needs to work really hard. You may start to notice symptoms and be diagnosed with either pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. If left untreated you leave yourself open to the serious complications of diabetes.

Reducing the risk of diabetes complications

We know it鈥檚 tough to be given a diagnosis of pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes, but it is a huge opportunity to address things early on.

鈥淚f you act early, the changes you need to make are small and you will barely notice them,鈥� says Graham. 

鈥淏ut the longer you let it go, the bigger the changes need to be. Visit your GP, health professional or diabetes specialist and ask what could happen if you don’t act now. Ask your mates if any of them have diabetes. I guarantee there will be more out there than you think, and they will tell you the same. Go to a specialist and listen to what they say, then act on it.鈥�

Although insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes has a genetic component, along with other factors you can鈥檛 change, there are some things you might be able to address. Unfortunately, as we age we simply cannot continue to live a life full of extremes, at least not without consequences.

Think about your diet, exercise, reducing stress and sleeping well. These are all things that can act as the WD40 to help reduce the rusting. In other words, they help reduce insulin resistance. You have the power, especially in the early stages, of significantly reducing your risk of diabetes complications in the future. You could even potentially turn things around.

鈥淕ood luck, but if you make changes now, as early as possible, you won’t need luck. There is an incredible support structure out there, tap into it and listen!鈥� says Graham.

It is the fourth anniversary of the program this year and the important work that has been accomplished to date would not have been possible without the support of the optometry sector. 

KeepSight is 黑料网鈥檚 initiative to reduce the prevalence of vision loss and blindness amongst people with diabetes. With the support of the eye care sector, the program encourages people with diabetes to sign up to KeepSight to receive a reminder when their diabetes eye check is due.聽

To celebrate the anniversary, 黑料网 sat down with nine optometrists to hear their stories and why they think KeepSight is important. 

Specsavers 

Babara Vermeulen 

Specsavers 鈥� Victor Harbor SA 

鈥淜eepSight is a perfect example of optometrists putting their patients first and doing all they can to protect their sight and prevent vision loss that could have been avoided. As an optometrist who cares deeply about early intervention and looking after my patients, I am proud to support KeepSight and recommend it to all of my patients with diabetes.鈥� 

Greeshma Patel 

Specsavers 鈥� Sydney NSW 

鈥淎s an optometrist who has seen the impact of diabetes related vision loss in my own family, I am very aware of how devastating and sudden these complications can be. There are many appointments involved in managing diabetes with various health care professionals. This means that you may lose track of time between eye examinations. We know that regular eye tests are important to detect early signs of diabetes related eye disease. KeepSight is a simple way to set a reminder for my patients, to ensure they don’t miss these vital checks.” 

Suren Naidoo 

Specsavers 鈥� Dapto NSW 

“Changes in the healthcare industry in recent years, especially during and post-COVID, have resulted in patients missing critical healthcare appointments. This is sometimes due to financial constraints, or just because they don’t perceive that they are having any issues with their diabetes or their vision. As a Specsavers optometrist, having an initiative like KeepSight at my disposal gives me a lot more peace of mind that my patients with diabetes will receive timely reminders to keep up their regular appointments, and also provides a reliable educational diabetes resource for them. In my opinion, this pushes us several steps forward in the fight to eliminate diabetes as the leading cause of preventable vision loss in Australia.” 

The Optical Company 

Jack Ma 

The Optical Co 鈥� Rutherford NSW 

鈥淭he rising prevalence of diabetes places a great burden on our healthcare system. I joined KeepSight as it is a great initiative to allow optometrists the opportunity to fully utilize our scope of practice, and help reduce some of that burden placed on our GPs and specialists, as well as our patients, who are required to attend many appointments. Ultimately, this will improve health outcomes for our population living with diabetes.鈥� 

Richard Shaw 

The Optical Co 鈥� Sydney NSW 

鈥淚 joined KeepSight because I think it is a great initiate to help improve the visual outcomes of our patients living with diabetes. It is another tool in our arsenal in the fight against diabetic retinopathy and the permanent vision loss associated with it.鈥� 

Sarah Park 

The Optical Co 鈥� Sydney NSW 

鈥淜eepSight is a great way to ensure quality eyecare for patients with diabetes. The program allows optometrists to keep a closer relationship with patients with diabetes, helping them ensure they get timely eye health checks to maintain optimal eye health and prevent vision loss related to diabetes.鈥� 

Bailey Nelson

Nino Mistry 

Bailey Nelson 鈥� Pacific Fair, Gold Coast QLD 

鈥淚 always think of the saying that 鈥榯he world looks a lot brighter through healthier eyes鈥� and guide my work with this motto. As an optometrist, I seek out opportunities where I can contribute to supporting my patients to maintain good eye health. KeepSight offers another tool for me to do that. It helps me keep an eye on my patients鈥� eye health and gives that additional tool to support their diabetes management journey.鈥� 

Sarah Golfis 

Bailey Nelson 鈥� Claremote, Perth WA 

鈥淎s an optometrist, I have seen the devastating long-term effects of poorly controlled diabetes on people’s vision. More often than not, a lot of this could have been prevented or detected earlier with regular eye examinations. When life gets busy, it’s easy to forget when you are due for appointments. KeepSight reminds people with diabetes about getting their annual eye exam. I believe it is so important to empower people with diabetes to understand their condition and be involved in their care.鈥� 

Shalini Nanayakkara 

Bailey Nelson 鈥� Charlestown, Newcastle NSW 

鈥淒iabetes is a multifactorial condition placing pressure on a patient to make thousands of decisions in a single day. KeepSight focuses on regular reminders and wide scale population screening to relieve this pressure and ensure those living remotely are never left out. 

They have increased opportunities for early detection by linking optometrists to GPs, endocrinologists and diabetes educators in team care arrangements. In doing so, they significantly reduce the public health burden. Having worked regionally, and as an advocate for preventative and holistic care, I view KeepSight as integral to patient management.鈥� 

Thank you to the more than 1,100 optometrists who have joined 鈥� 黑料网鈥檚 national diabetes eye check reminder program. With your help we are making it easy for people with diabetes to receive regular reminders when their diabetes eye check is due. We know that diabetes can cause blindness, but 98% is preventable with early detection. is the support of the optometry sector is a key contributor to the incredible success of KeepSight over the last four years. 

Thank you to all the KeepSight optometrists for uniting with us in the fight against diabetes-related eye complications. 

New data from 黑料网 reveals people in the Northern Territory are more than four times more likely to be hospitalised with diabetes-related kidney disease than people living in Northern Sydney.

The data, which is modelled on figures from the Australian Institute of Health and Wellbeing鈥檚 report Geographical variation in disease: diabetes, cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease, revealsthat the 10 Primary Health Networks reporting the highest rates of diabetes-related kidney disease are all in regional and remote areas.

黑料网 Group CEO Justine Cain says the findings demonstrate an urgent need for a National Diabetes Kidney Disease Screening Program to be established.

Ms Cain said the pattern of regions being hardest hit by kidney hospitalisations highlights the need to improve early detection and treatment of chronic kidney disease.

鈥淒iabetes is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease, with more than 330,000 people living with both conditions,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淭he impact of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) on hospitalisations points to an urgent need to increase rates of kidney checks among people living with diabetes.

鈥淎ustralians living in regional and remote areas do not have access to the same health services as those in metropolitan areas and they鈥檙e paying a heavy price for that in terms of their kidney health.

鈥淭here are a number of effective interventions and medications that can prevent or slow the progress of kidney disease but early diagnosis is essential so treatment can start when it鈥檚 most beneficial.鈥�

Although the Northern Territory PHN was the worst affected health district reporting 648 hospitalisations for diabetic kidney disease per 100,000 people, Western Queensland (359), Hunter New England and Central Coast (340), North Coast (327), Central Queensland and Sunshine Coast (315), Northern Queensland (296), Darling Downs and West Moreton (289), Country WA (278), Murrumbidgee (275) and Murray (270) PHNs topped Australia鈥檚 health districts for diabetic kidney disease hospitalisations.

Kidney Health Australia CEO, Chris Forbes said investment in early detection and management would greatly improve the lives of people living with diabetes and kidney disease, while also saving billions of dollars long-term for the health system.

鈥淜idney Health Australia recently released a Deloitte Access Economics report into the cost of chronic kidney disease on the health system, which found every dollar invested in early detection and prevention returns around $45,鈥� Mr Forbes said.

鈥淭he time is now to invest in protecting more Australians from reaching kidney failure and provide more supports to those already living with the burden of this disease.鈥�

Joseph Kizana, 58, is grateful that his nephrologist started him on dialysis while he still had some kidney function left. His specialist wanted Joseph to avoid further problems before they developed.

Joseph has experienced his unfair share of diabetes complications. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at 27, Joseph did his best to ignore the condition but six years after he was diagnosed, he was admitted to hospital with heart irregularities.

That was the start. Joseph developed kidney disease, damage to his eyes, peripheral neuropathy causing nerve pain and numbness in his hands and feet, and eventually his right foot was amputated.

Now Joseph is on dialysis three times a week for five hours each day. He is unable to have a kidney transplant as his heart function is too poor.

Ms Cain said 黑料网 was concerned about the low rates of annual kidney disease screening among people living with diabetes.

鈥淲e know that only one in four people living with diabetes are getting their kidneys checked within the recommended timeframe,鈥� she said.

鈥淥ur message for people living with diabetes is simple. Make an appointment to get your kidneys checked today. Your best chance of delaying chronic kidney disease is by catching problems early.鈥�