Figures released by Diabetes Australia show a ‘staggering’ increase in rates of diabetes, with over 250,000 Victorians living with the disease, and 73 new cases being diagnosed in the state daily.

 

The research shows that over 150,000 new cases have been diagnosed in the state over the last decade.

 

Research shows that rural and region areas have recorded the highest percentage increase, followed by lower socio-economic suburbs in metropolitan areas.

 

“Where we're seeing just about every regional and rural area in Victoria, had staggering increases in diabetes,” chief executive of Diabetes Australia, Professor Greg Johnson said.

 

Professor Johnson attributed a lower accessibility of affordable recreation and infrastructure coupled with an oversupply of fast food outlets as the main contributors.