KITLIVING
2, paediatric and gestational diabetes.
Patients come to us from all over the
world to benefit from our exceptional
expertise. The team can help identify
and alleviate the symptoms of diabetes
distress and there are dietitians to talk to
and even a bariatric surgeon. There are
packages available with ongoing support
for weight loss or weight management,
including the all-important psychological
support. All the clinicians have the ability
to provide email or phone support beyond
the clinic appointment.
Making a difference
Dr Abraham has been involved in diabetes
research and diabetes care for most of
his career. He says, "I am determined to
make a difference to the lives of people
living with diabetes. It is easier for us to
do that by being in private practice. We
can devote the time to cater for individual
needs. I see Type 1 diabetes in particular
as being an area of great need. There is
a lot out there to help, but do patients
get it at all, or what's right for them? Not
all our patients are well off, but they are
keen to keep on top of their diabetes. We
do outcome studies so we can report on
progress. A private clinic has the scope
for this kind of personalised medicine."
Dr Abraham has an unusual viewpoint
when it comes to the ubiquity of the HbA1c
measurement that sometimes seems to
be the be-all and end-all of diabetes care.
He says, "Everyone is glucose-centric
these days, but diabetes is more than
that. A 20-minute appointment would
only allow a discussion about glucose,
but we spend the time examining the
whole picture; it's not just a glucose
problem. Much of the stress of diabetes
comes with the sense of failure people
experience every day with 'wrong' blood
glucose tests. The fact is that many Type
1 diabetics are veterans of their own
condition; they know it far better than
their doctor does. And these veterans are
often very well-informed. It is challenging
to keep pace with sensor and insulin
pump technology. The learning curve
and learning time is expensive. Specialist
diabetes centres are vital, but there are
not enough of them."
Dr Abrahams is positive about the
future of diabetes care. "What's exciting
about diabetes care at the moment is
that it's getting better every day" he says,
"There's much more technology, it's
just a matter of translating that into real
practice."
To find out more call 0800 048 3330,
"
Diabetes is a complex condition affecting all of the body,
and even the mind. London Diabetes Centre has a
multidisciplinary team and has in-depth knowledge involving
cardiac health, eyecare and footcare." - Dr. Ralph Abraham
London Diabetes Centre holds a quarterly open day. Anyone can come, though there's a
limited number of places. These include talks and sometimes device manufacturers attend.
It is a relaxed environment where people can learn. To find out more contact London Medical.
Click the image above to download
their brochure.
www.londondiabetes.co.uk