Diabetes breakthrough welcomed

The gene responsible for the most common form of diabetes has been identified by scientists in Australia.

Researchers are due to reveal details of the breakthrough at a conference in Washington.

The gene is linked to Type 2 diabetes, which used to be known as 'late onset diabetes' or 'sugar diabetes'. It is linked to obesity and is usually developed later in life.

More than 100,000 New Zealanders have Type 2 diabetes, and thousands more are diagnosed each year.

The disease is recognised as an epidemic in the western world, so finding a genetic link will make a huge difference to identifying people who are likely to get it.

A simple swab test is expected to be available in about two years, which will help doctors with early detection.

Patients would then have a much better chance of taking steps to avoid developing it.

New Zealand health professionals are encouraged by the news.

Ministry of Health chief clinical advisor Sandy Dawson says it could help with prevention of the disease but that does not mean people should stop looking after themselves.

Dr Dawson says people need to keep exercising and eating well.

He says this could mean great things for the New Zealand health system.

- NEWSTALK ZB