Warning of more diabetes deaths

A SPECIALIST in diabetes treatment has warned that more patients could die or suffer amputations if extra resources are not provided to tackle waiting lists.

Consultant endocrinologist at Beaumont hospital, Dr Chris Thompson, said three diabetics on a waiting list for treatment had already died this year. He said delays also lead to eye disease and kidney failure.

Diabetes Federation of Ireland chairman Dr Thompson said a commitment by the Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA) to give the diabetes clinic priority in next year’s Budget had to be honoured to prevent further fatalities.