164175 - Diabetes Management in General Practice: Medication & Behavioural Management for Older Patients

A evening workshop discussing the management of type 2 diabetes in older patients.

Diabetes is a national health priority and the fasting growing chronic disease in Australia and carries a significant burden on the individual as well as the healthcare system. The number of people with type 2 diabetes is growing as a result of rising rates overweight & obesity, lifestyle and dietary changes and an ageing population. Within 20 years the number of people in Australia with type 2 diabetes is estimated to increase from 870,000 in 2014 to more than 2.5 million.The most socially disadvantaged Australians (which includes older Australians) are twice as likely to develop diabetes or be required treatment in primary care for diabetes. If left undiagnosed or poorly managed, type 2 diabetes can lead to further complications such as coronary artery disease, stroke, kidney failure, limb amputations & blindness. The early identification and optimal management of people with type 2 diabetes is therefore critical.