PEOPLE worried about developing diabetes will have the chance to get 'measured up' for the disease when a special health campaign rolls into Redbridge.

THE dangers of the condition will be discussed at the UK Measure Up Roadshow when it stops off at Ilford Town Hall this Thursday and Friday.

Visitors will be encouraged to get their waists measured during the event - in order to assess their risk of developing the type 2 version of the disease.

Having a large waist means you are up to 12 times more likely to develop the condition.

The campaign will also raise awareness of other risk factors for Type 2 diabetes, including being over 40 years old, being of Black or South Asian origin and having a family history of the condition.

At risk waist measurements are 37 inches or more for men, except those of South Asian origin who are at risk at 35 inches or more, and 31.5 inches or more for all women.

Roz Rosenblatt, regional manager for Diabetes UK London, said: “Diabetes is one of the biggest health challenges facing us today.

"It’s frightening that there are more than 70,000 people in London alone that have type 2 diabetes but have no idea they do.

"I would urge everyone who can to visit the Measure Up Roadshow. It could be the best thing you ever do for your health. ”

For more information visit: diabetes.org.uk/MeasureUp.