HAMPSHIRE residents are being called forward as part of a nationwide health campaign to reduce the risk of diabetes.

Diabetes UK aims to reach the approximately seven million people at risk of contracting type two diabetes and is encouraging everyone to get tested to avoid future complications including blindness, stroke and possible amputation.

Diabetes UK chief executive Barbara Young said: “Diabetes is one of the greatest health challenges that we face.

“Despite this many people do not know what the key risk factors are and so are unaware if they are at high risk. We really want to reach these people so that they understand their personal risk of developing the condition and so they can be supported to reduce their risk as in most cases it is possible to delay or prevent the onset of the condition by making healthy lifestyle changes.

“Diabetes can lead to devastating complications and shatters lives and families so it’s really essential that people get checked.”

Type two diabetes is often related to weight issues, age and diet.