THREE powerful apps are now available to tackle Wales’ growing diabetes challenge.

Recent figures released by Diabetes UK Cymru reveal that 555,228 people in Wales – or one in five adults – currently have either diabetes or prediabetes.

NHS Wales has invested in a Wales-wide licence for three innovative apps that support prevention of Type 2 diabetes for those at high risk and self-management for those already diagnosed.

The free apps are funded by Public Health Wales as part of the Tackling Diabetes Together Programme, complementing the successful Welsh Government funded All Wales Diabetes Prevention Programme. Delivered locally in primary care by dedicated teams of trained healthcare support workers and dieticians, this face-to-face programme supports people at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and has already helped more than 10,000 people across Wales.

To access the face-to-face All Wales Diabetes Prevention Programme, speak to your GP who can refer you if you're at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Participants receive personalised support with making dietary changes, increasing physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Jim McManus, National Director for Health and Wellbeing, Public Health Wales, said:

“The ability of a person living with Type 2 diabetes to self-manage their condition is essential to them being able to live well and for longer. On average, a person with diabetes spends just 3 hours a year with healthcare professionals and 8,757 hours managing their condition on their own. To do this effectively, consistent support is crucial.

“There are also an estimated 269,747 people in Wales living with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia – more commonly known as prediabetes – and many are unaware they have the condition. Without intervention, this can develop into Type 2 diabetes.

“For those who developed gestational diabetes during pregnancy, the risk increases significantly – they have a 50 per cent higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes within 3-5 years if preventative measures aren't taken.

“The good news is that with the right support, Type 2 diabetes can be delayed and is largely preventable.”

The apps offer comprehensive features designed to empower users, including:

  • Weekly tracking dashboards to monitor progress
  • Interactive learning modules on managing diabetes
  • Activity tracking to encourage healthy movement
  • ‘Ask the expert’ function providing advice from a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians
  • Goal-setting and challenges to keep you motivated
  • Access to a supportive diabetes community of more than 30,000 people sharing experiences
  • Users can also invite friends and family to join them on the platforms, creating a supportive network that research shows significantly improves outcomes.

Anyone in Wales can download the apps at no cost by completing a simple online request form:

You'll need your NHS number, which can be found on the NHS Wales app, any recent prescription, appointment letter or by asking your GP practice.

For more information on the Tackling Diabetes Programme, visit phw.nhs.wales/tacklingdiabetes .