A big rise in the number of people with type 2 diabetes in recent years does not fully explain the spiralling costs, say Cardiff University researchers.

With rates of the condition expected to rise further, the NHS needs to get the budget under control, they conclude.

In 2008 the NHS spent £700m on drugs to control blood sugar.

The researchers calculated that between 2000 and 2008 the number of prescriptions for glucose-lowering drugs had risen by 50% but costs, even taking into account the price of inflation, rose by 104%.

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence recommends lifestyle changes as a first-step in controlling type 2 diabetes, before drug treatment is started.  GPs should then start people on the basic treatments before looking at other options if they do not work.

With thanks to www.bbc.co.uk.

To read the full story go to:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-10740224