12 June 2007
Over two million people in the UK have diabetes, and it is thought that another 750,000 may have it but are completely unaware. In fact, according to recent research by Diabetes UK, people with diabetes could be putting their health, or even their lives at serious risk because of a worrying lack of awareness about their condition.
In line with National Diabetes Week, Assura Pharmacy, one of the UK’s leading providers of integrated pharmacy services, are offering free diabetes screening tests to the local community.
In a simple and quick procedure available at Assura Pharmacy Bonnyrigg, West Everton or Ropewalks, customers can drop in and request a test. The procedure measures the level of glucose in a blood sample taken from the patient in a straightforward finger prick test.
The sample is then analysed by a blood glucose meter and patients get their results within minutes. Those found to have high levels of blood sugar are referred to their GP.
Assura Pharmacy aims to provide local communities with more convenient and accessible health care and this latest offering enables patients to access a valuable service in order to make essential improvements to their overall health and well being.
Ed Okotcha, Pharmacy Manager of Assura Pharmacy Ropewalks is keen to raise awareness of the opportunity that the diabetes services offers to the local community, whether they have been referred by their GP or are simply curious to be tested.
"Our services help to empower the community to take better care of their health by raising awareness and offering a means of getting themselves checked out quickly and easily if they believe they may have a problem.
"By having one of our free tests customers can either have their worries dealt with immediately or be referred straight to a GP for further investigation or treatment if necessary."
ENDS.
Press enquiries regarding Assura Group and Assura Pharmacy to:
Lucinda Lane or Susan Leigh, Fuel PR.
Tel: 020 7498 8211
Louise Bathersby, Assura Group.
Tel: 020 7107 3830
