Family doctors are being encouraged to target patients most at risk, including those who are seriously overweight.
Under the plans, GPs will refer patients to gym classes such as Zumba, aerobics or spinning – intensive cycling – funded by the NHS. They will also be advised to attend cooking sessions teaching them how to poach, boil and grill food instead of frying it.
Around 3.8million Britons have diabetes. The figure has doubled in 20 years, mainly due to obesity. The new scheme was be announced by NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens.
The cookery and Zumba classes have been piloted in Bradford. GPs have been pinpointing patients most at risk of diabetes, including the obese.
Patients are initially sent to two hour-long sessions at GP practices and community centres which teach them basic tips on healthy eating and losing weight. They are then offered vouchers for membership at local gyms. They can also choose to attend cookery classes, specialising in healthy techniques for preparing food, usually held in community centres.
