Number of new diabetes patients falls

THE number of new cases of diabetes in the Lothians is falling, meaning locals are less likely to have the condition than anyone else in Scotland.

Figures show only around four per cent of the population are registered as having tested positive, with a further 0.4 per cent reckoned to be undiagnosed.

New diagnoses coming forward are dropping, with only 2143 in 2010 compared with 2347 the year before. However, there is concern about the estimated 4000 people who have the disease but don't know it.

Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said: "This survey shows that we continue to see ongoing improvements.

"The Diabetes Action Plan, published last year, set out a three-year vision for improving services offered to those living with diabetes in Scotland and the findings from this year's survey reinforce our determination to deliver world-class diabetes healthcare."