As GPs, our priority is to help residents live longer, healthier lives.

One of the biggest challenges to achieving this aim is that Newham has one of the highest rates of Type 2 diabetes in the capital.

We’re working closely with Newham Council and other health organisations to make sure people are not only able to manage their condition, but can make the changes to their lifestyles and reduce their risk of developing the disease.

Up to 80 per cent of cases of Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented by making simple changes in our everyday lives – such as eating healthier, being more active, stopping smoking and limiting alcohol intake.

Gardening, sport, playing outside with your children, riding a bike or swimming are all fun ways to get active. Also through activeNewham there is a wide range of activities to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to keep healthy, regardless of age or ability.

More than 9,300 Newham residents have successfully quit smoking over the past five years thanks to free local advice and support. To find out more visit newham.gov.uk/stopsmoking or your local pharmacy for free advice.

We also recommend everyone attends their free NHS health check, which can help to spot early signs of preventable conditions like diabetes. People aged 40 to 74 will be invited for an NHS health check by their local surgery every five years.

Since 2008 more than 62,000 Newham residents have taken up the offer of a free check. If you found to be at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, there is help available to make lifestyle changes.

As well as working on diabetes prevention, we are currently redesigning diabetes services in Newham. Young people with diabetes and their families have been sharing their experiences of existing services and suggestions on how these can be improved at a series of workshops. More from Dr Chandra