As National Diabetes Week kicks off across Australia from July 13 to July 19, it's a vital time for residents in regional and remote NSW to focus on their health.

This year's theme, "Diabetes: We want a future where diabetes can do no harm," hits particularly close to home for our communities, where the challenges of managing this chronic condition are often amplified.

Statistics show that diabetes prevalence tends to be higher in remote areas of NSW compared to major cities.

9.6% of people in remote areas of NSW have diabetes, compared to 8.1% in major cities. Crucially, access to healthcare and specialist services can be more difficult outside metropolitan hubs.

This often means that diabetes is first diagnosed in a hospital setting for those in remote areas, rather than through proactive GP visits.

The good news is that National Diabetes Week is all about empowering individuals.

Diabetes Australia and other health organisations are encouraging everyone to "Check today for a healthier tomorrow."

This includes understanding your risk of developing type 2 diabetes through simple tools like the AUSDRISK quiz, or by having a conversation with your local doctor.

For those already living with diabetes, regular health checks are paramount.

These include checks for eyes, feet, blood pressure, and kidneys, which can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications.

While regional residents might face logistical hurdles, reaching out to your local GP or Aboriginal Medical Service is the first step. Many regional health providers are working hard to bridge these gaps and offer crucial support.

Let's use this week to spark important conversations in our towns and villages.

Knowing your risk, getting tested, and staying on top of your management plan can make all the difference in achieving a future where diabetes causes no harm to our regional and remote communities.

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