RESIDENTS in Bradford and surrounding areas are being urged to use an online tool to find out if they are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

Untreated type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health complications, including loss of eyesight, heart disease, nerve damage and stroke

Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Week begins on Monday and people Yorkshire are being encouraged to use the Diabetes UK Know Your Risk tool.

NHS North East and Yorkshire regional medical director, Dr Hamish McLure, said: "Type 2 diabetes is one of the biggest healthcare challenges of our time, but the good news is you can prevent it by eating a healthy, balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and keeping physically active."

He explained that certain factors increase a person's risk, including age, ethnicity and high blood pressure.

Many people who have type 2 diabetes are unaware of it as they have little or no symptoms.

Dr McLure added: "I would encourage people to find out their risk of type 2 diabetes by using the Diabetes UK Know Your Risk tool.

"It only takes a few minutes and if someone is at moderate to high risk, the tool will advise them to contact their GP practice for a blood test."