CLIVE Knowles does not suffer ill effects from his diabetes but takes part in clinical trials because he knows how it can take a turn for the worse at any time.

The 73-year-old has been taking part in Oxford trials since he was first told he was at risk of developing the condition 22 years ago.

Speaking ahead of World Diabetes Day today he said he was happy to take part in the tests that help experts understand diabetes better.

The condition occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin for functions including maintaining a normal blood glucose level.

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The Chestnut Close, Witney resident said: “There is a lot of damage being done to your system if you have high blood sugar through the day.

“You can lose limbs, you can go blind, it is a horrendous thing if it gets out of control.”

Being at risk of developing the condition made the fomer fleet manager a valuable subject for screening trials. Since being classed as a type 2 diabetic about 16 years ago he has taken part in five further studies.

These have taken place at the Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism at Headington’s Churchill Hospital.

They included taking an injection alongside his three daily 850mg tablets of metformin to keep his blood sugar under control. Mr Knowles said of the year-long trial: “It brought my blood sugar readings about where they should be and sometimes a little bit lower.

“It depended on what I ate the previous day. I didn’t necessarily feel any different.”

While benefiting from expert monitoring at the centre, he said a careful watch on diet and lifestyle was vital.

“I am careful with what I eat, that is important. I don’t eat fatty stuff, now and again I might want something like a biscuit or beer.

“I would urge people just to look after themselves; you are what you put in your mouth with diabetes.”

In 2004 there were 18,235 county people aged 17 and over diagnosed with the condition and this rose to 26,109 for 2012/13.

Professor Stephen Gough, a consultant at the centre, said treating complications from diabetes costs the NHS £10bn a year and this was expected to rise to £17bn by 2035.

To learn about taking part in research studies call Alison Monk or Olivier Bazin on 01865 857149 or 01865 738538.

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