- Pre-Diabetes is where the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood stream is higher than the body wants for some of the time. The body requires glucose levels in the blood maintained between 4-7 mmols (normal levels). Having a blood glucose level above 8.0 mmols is considered high and overtime damages blood vessels, especially the smaller blood vessels that deliver blood to the eyes, heart, feet and kidneys. The longer the length of time a person has high glucose levels the more they are at risk of having Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
- Gestational diabetes is when diabetes occurs during pregnancy. This form of diabetes usually only lasts for the pregnancy but the mother has an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the future. To reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes one should follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly and avoid weight gain.
- Diabetes Ireland, working with Trinity College Dublin, developed Diabetes Smart, a 55-minute online series of videos, quizzes and visual tools that people can watch and participate in, from the comfort of their own homes. You can complete it on this link from Diabetes Ireland https://www.diabeteseducation.ie/
