A THIRD of people in our region could be risking their physical and emotional health by keeping their diabetes a secret.

According to a new survey by Diabetes UK, 35 per cent of diabetics in Yorkshire and the Humber had previously, or still were, keeping their condition from friends and family.

A third of that figure admitted that their discretion had affected their physical or emotional health and a quarter of sufferers said the need to keep it a secret was down to fears of discrimination or bullying.

“We have to ask why so many people with diabetes keep it a secret,” said Barbara Young, chief executive of Diabetes UK It is hugely concerning that the health and wellbeing of so many people could be at risk as a result of discrimination or prejudice.”

The findings came at the start of Diabetes Week yesterday, which will see Diabetes UK aiming to raise £200,000.

Details at diabetes.org.uk/diabetesweek