Research programme looking for diabetes sufferers
16/04/2008
Some 500 people with type 2 diabetes living in the South West have been participating in the largest diet and exercise trial in the UK for people with type 2 diabetes - but now more people are needed to help.
The Early ACTivity In Diabetes (Early ACTID) study, run by the University of Bristol, is assessing the benefits of diet and exercise for people with type 2 diabetes - which are thought to be important factors in the treatment of the disease. Researchers already know that diet can control glucose levels and improve blood pressure and cholesterol for those with diabetes, but it is not yet known whether increasing exercise will provide additional improvements.
So far the trial has recruited nearly 500 patients, but now wishes to involve another 80 people who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after October 2007. Individuals will be allocated to one of the three groups: those in the first group receive regular help and advice on improving their diet, the second group receive the same dietary advice, but also receive help to increase their daily levels of exercise, and the final group will be a control group, which will receive standard care.
Participants can be seen at their most local hospital, either Musgrove Park in Taunton, Weston General in Weston-Super-Mare, the BRI in Southmead and Frenchay, Bristol, or Delancey, Cheltenham and Gloucester hospitals.
Alastair Norcross, Early ACTID Study Coordinator, said: "This study has proved more popular than we expected - over 95% of participants have already completed the whole one year programme, and many people have said that they would have wanted to continue after the end of their year with us."
It you would like part and have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the last six months, please contact the Early ACTID team for more information on 0117 928 2440 or visit the website linked below.