Diabetes care has changed enormously in the past few years. Diagnostic criteria have changed and there is strong evidence for the benefits of vigorous treatment of high blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol and other risk factors for complications. Without such care, there is a greater risk of disability or death. Patients rightly expect high standards of evidence-based care tailored to their personal needs. General Practitioners are well placed to provide good, local diabetes care. This book provides a step-by-step guide to diabetes care for general practitioners and their teams; some patients may also find it helpful. The author draws on practical experience and takes a realistic, common sense approach to the assessment, education, monitoring, and treatment of diabetes in all age groups. The new diagnostic criteria are explained and the bewildering range of new pills, insulins and gadgets are clearly discussed with help in choosing the right one for your patient. There are detailed sections on helping patients to manage diabetes in everyday life - eating, exercise, work and travel and there is extensive help about monitoring and adjustment of glucose levels, and how to prevent and cope with emergencies. The book focuses particularly on the prevention, detection and treatment of diabetic tissue damage, including heart disease. Children, the elderly, and those from varied ethnic backgrounds have dedicated chapters, as do men and women with diabetes. Practical Diabetes Care gently guides those who wish to establish new diabetic services, and provides more detailed specialist information for those who wish to enhance the diabetes care they already provide. The author has many years of practical experience in the field of diabetes care and has written widely on the topic for professionals and patients.