DIABETES UK Cymru have launched a radio ad campaign in Wales to show that anyone can develop type 1 diabetes, tell people what the main symptoms of the condition are and urge them to get a finger-prick test with their GP if they are concerned.

Dai Williams, National Director at Diabetes UK Cymru said: “Type 1 diabetes is easily overlooked and symptoms can be mistaken for viral infections, particularly in children and young people, which can lead to medical emergencies.

“Covid-19 has just confused matters more, with diagnoses being missed or delayed.

“We’re urging people to not let fears of Covid-19 stop them from seeking medical help and also for parents, carers, healthcare professionals and the public in general to be aware of the symptoms, as lockdown has disrupted face-to-face opportunities to educate the Welsh population about what can quickly become a life-threatening condition”.

The 4 Ts of type 1 diabetes are:

• Toilet - Going to the toilet a lot, bed wetting by a previously dry child or heavier nappies in babies

• Thirsty - Being really thirsty and not being able to quench the thirst

• Tired - Feeling more tired than usual

• Thinner - Losing weight or looking thinner than usual

Voiced by broadcaster, Vicki Blight who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2019, the ad uses voices of real people of different ages in English and Welsh saying that they have the autoimmune disease.

“As a fit and healthy person, I didn’t expect to get type 1 diabetes, yet I did,” she said.

“As a supporter of the charity in Wales, I have been hoping to raise awareness of symptoms, diagnosis, management and what’s it like to live with type 1 diabetes as a relentless physical condition that has a significant psychological impact”.