Source: WHO

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or alternatively, when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar.

Hyperglycaemia, or raised blood sugar, is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body’s systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels.

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Source: beyondblue

NSW Minister for Ageing The Hon. Kristina Keneally will launch a new initiative to combat depression among older people in NSW.

The beyond maturity blues peer education program which is being funded by beyondblue: the national depression initiative has been developed by beyondblue in partnership with Council on the Ageing. The New South Wales program will be conducted by COTA NSW and the NSW Senior Peer Education Centre and will provide information sessions for older people to increase their awareness of depression and where to go for help.

COTA Chief Executive Ian Yates said: "Depression is not a normal part of ageing. It is a health problem, not a weakness. We will address the issue by providing seniors with information that will reduce stigmatising attitudes and increase seniors’ knowledge of where to receive appropriate help. Depression is a treatable illness – information and support is now available."

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Source: Tony Ferguson Weightloss Program

Tony Ferguson’s recipe of the Month:

1 Large Eggplant, peeled and chopped into thin circular slices
2 Medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise
Olive oil spray
Salt to taste

For Ricotta mix
600g low fat fresh ricotta
125g frozen chopped spinach
1 Tablespoon parsley
1 Tablespoon of oregano
1 Tablespoon of basil
2 Tablespoons of shallots, chopped
1 Teaspoon of garlic powder
Salt to taste

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Source: Diabetes Australia

On 21st May 2007 the New England Journal of Medicine reported on a new analysis which highlighted the possibility of increased risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction and death from cardiovascular causes) through the use of rosiglitazone (AVANDIA) by people with type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes Australia is closely monitoring the situation. It is important to note that the report is based on a preliminary study, which by its design cannot be definitive. The authors of the recently published study themselves state that it has important limitations and the results have ‘considerable uncertainty about the magnitude of observed hazard’.

Diabetes management should be monitored and assessed on an individual basis through consultation between patient and doctor. However Diabetes Australia suggests that people with type 2 diabetes who take rosiglitazone (AVANDIA) should not stop using this medication until they have discussed their ongoing use of this medication individually with their GP or specialist. If a decision is then made to discontinue rosiglitazone (AVANDIA), alternative treatments to maintain diabetes control will need to be considered.

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