Even when diabetes has been diagnosed, there are huge shortcomings in the ongoing care of those with the condition.
There are 10 diabetes care centres in Ireland, eight of them in Dublin hospitals. "Many centres are without a consultant or diabetes specialist nurse," says Dr O'Sullivan. "Everyone with diabetes should have access to a doctor, diabetes specialist nurse and a dietician. Less than 10 per cent of those with diabetes get adequate diabetes care. One in four of those with diabetes are not going anywhere for their care. They feel OK, so they don't go for regular check-ups. This is a huge problem."
The Irish College of General Practitioners is extending its shared care scheme throughout the country. Once in place, the intention is that those with diabetes will attend their GPs three times a year and the hospital clinic once a year for check-ups.