LESS than half of people are aware that diabetes can cause serious complications such as amputations, according to a new survey, despite the fact that there have been 497 diabetes-related amputations in North, East and West Devon in the last three years.

The nationwide survey of 1,986 people by Ipsos Mori, which was commissioned by Diabetes UK, suggests that just 43 per cent of people are aware that diabetes can cause foot ulcers or amputations.

The charity is concerned that awareness of the devastating impact diabetes can have is so low, with the survey also showing that less than half of people understand that the condition can cause blindness (47 per cent) or early death (45 per cent).

Diabetes UK has launched the findings to mark the start of a hard-hitting regional advertising campaign in Devon that will get across the serious potential impact of the condition on both people and their families.

The aim of the campaign, which is being funded by Diabetes UK’s National Charity Partnership with Tesco, is to raise awareness of the potential impact of Type 2 diabetes.

Up to 80 per cent of Type 2 cases could be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes, but the charity is concerned that people in Devon may not understand why it is so important to do what people can to help prevent it.

Phaedra Perry, South West Regional Manager of Diabetes UK, said: “The stark fact is that in the last three years 497 diabetes related amputations have happened in Devon, yet our new research shows that public understanding of its consequences is much too low.

“It is vital that we raise awareness in Devon of the potential consequences of Type 2 diabetes, in particular, so that people understand that if they are carrying extra weight then it is really important that they take steps to lose it.

“This is why I hope our advertising campaign will get across the message about the seriousness of diabetes and give people who are concerned that they might be at risk something practical they can do to take reduce their own risk. It’s much better to take steps to lose weight now than have to manage a serious lifelong condition.”

The campaign will run until 14 December. Radio adverts are appearing on Classic FM. From Monday 17th November, adverts will appear on trains, gyms, malls, cinemas in Devon, and motorway service stations in Exeter, Cullompton and Plymouth. National TV adverts will also appear from Monday 17th November.