Roche Diagnostics survey finds shortcomings in diabetes education

Roche Diagnostics has completed a survey which suggests that 94 per cent of people suffering from type 2 diabetes have not attended any educational courses to support the management of their condition.

The firm made its assertion as the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence prepares to announce new guidance recommending regular blood glucose monitoring supported by education for type 2 sufferers.

Roche’s study indicated that, upon diagnosis, 75 per cent of respondents were recommended by their doctor to self-monitor their blood glucose levels on a daily basis.

However, 59 per cent were not sticking to the recommendations and self-monitored less frequently than daily or failed to do so at all.

Dr David Cavan, spokesman for the Diabetes Education Network, comments: “This new research shows that more needs to be done to ensure patients with type 2 diabetes receive the right type of support for their long-term health needs and well-being.”

In recent days, the firm announced that it intends to increase its stake in pharmaceuticals firm Chugai from 50.1 per cent to 59.9 per cent.