A Queen Mary University diabetes study has revealed the extent of the challenge facing those who will deliver the Olympic legacy in East London.
The study analysed a million people without diabetes aged between 27 and 79 registered with a GP across Tower Hamlets, Newham and City and Hackney.
Researchers found that overall, one in 10 people in the three boroughs has a high risk of developing type two diabetes within the next ten years.
The researchers used a scoring system known as the QDS to calculate national figures.
This information was then used to create a map showing risk level in different areas.
Dr Diana Smith, who created the map and lectures at the Queen Mary School of Medicine and Dentistry, said: “There is a geographical band of high risk across East London, which we’ve dubbed the ‘East London Diabetes Belt’, [running] near the Olympic Park.”
Dr Douglas Noble, who led the research, said: “This is a gold medal moment at the start of the Olympic legacy period to prioritise tackling chronic disease and capitalise on the enthusiasm for physical activity generated by the Olympics.”
It is hoped the study could influence policy-making to ensure that those most in need are prioritised in receiving help.
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